Exciting learning hub will develop local digital talent

Digital development is a growth area and the college passionately believes in its key role in economic and social growth. This project will enhance our already strong partnership with Abertay University, enabling us to work collaboratively to design and deliver a seamless progression pathway, from HNC through to Degree level, to support the growth of this exciting new industry. New opportunities such as Foundation and Modern Apprenticeships will also be explored.

 

This work aligns closely with our Digital Strategy, which has been accelerated significantly in the last year. The refreshed focus of the strategy hones in on three key areas for the region: Digital Engagement, Capability and Access. The esports arena development is therefore innately connected to the strategy and will ensure the continued vision of D&A’s digital development aligns with its partners and the investment in the local gaming talent pipeline.

 

D&A College sees this as an amazing opportunity for the city and the wider region to build on the fantastic educational partnerships and experiences already provided within the creative sector. We are looking forward to working with Abertay University, Dundee City Council and all other partners to deliver this fantastic hub of learning, innovation and development right at the heart of Dundee’s waterfront.

 

Gillian McGovern, Head of the Creative and Cultural academic sector, says, “The college is proud to be a partner in this exciting and innovative project that will create more opportunities to develop new and existing skills to support the growth of Scotland’s digital economy. A common myth for students studying in the digital sector is that there are no jobs locally out there for them. We have created several local partnerships within our team, including Ninja Kiwi and MTC, and this is a major player to add to the collection. This will require a demand for people with specific skills and create career pathways into roles such as Marketing, Events, PR and Sales; Business and Product Management, and Journalism and Social Media.”

 

A previous student at D&A College, Stephen McIntosh, agrees that there are local opportunities in the digital sector: “Going back into full-time education at the age of 30 was one of the best decisions I have ever made. During my first year at D&A College I was able to secure a position as an IT Support Tech with a local company which fell in line with my field of study, Computer Science. I gained knowledge and experience at the same time which set solid foundations for my current career as an IT Co-ordinator.”

 

Simon Hewitt, Principal of D&A College, notes, “This project represents the best of partnership working to deliver creative solutions for a creative sector. At D&A, we are always looking for new and different ways to support our community and the region we serve. This has the potential to strengthen partnerships across the city and deliver engaging learning that strengthens skills development in a growing sector.”