Isabel Jones, Partnerships Development Manager at Catch22, celebrates the on-going partnership with innovative tech giant, Salesforce. Salesforce and Catch22’s new programme Digital Skills Academy has recently launched, supporting young people at crucial transition points in education, to aid them with digital and AI skills for the future.
Why focus on AI and digital skills?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines that can perform tasks such as problem-solving, decision-making, learning, and natural language processing. In the context of education, AI presents both challenges and opportunities which highlights the need for curriculum to adapt, equipping students with digital literacy, critical thinking, and adaptability.
A report that was published in October this year reveals that there are already more than 3,000 AI companies in the UK generating over £10 billion in revenue. More than 60,000 individuals working for these are in AI-related roles, with many more AI focused jobs extending across various other industries. This highlights the growing demand for AI skills, emphasising the need to equip young people with the education to succeed.
The foundation for a successful career and future begins with education, ensuring young people acquire essential skills and remain in education for as long as possible. Research has shown that children from the most deprived areas, or those requiring additional support to engage with education, are more likely to disengage and leave school earlier than their peers. Additionally, young people in disadvantaged areas or attending alternative provisions are also particularly vulnerable to being left behind as technology evolves, exacerbated by digital poverty. Department for Education data (2022) revealed that 1 in 3 disadvantaged young people were not in sustained education, apprenticeships, or employment five years after their GCSEs, compared to 1 in 7 of their non-disadvantaged peers. Educating and supporting these young people is essential to keep them engaged in learning, equip them with vital life skills, and prepare them for the future.
Building on success
Catch22 first partnered with Salesforce in 2020, launching the highly successful Digital Leap programme in January 2021. Digital Leap supported individuals aged 18-30 facing barriers to work to transition into sustainable employment. Over the course of the programme, 468 people participated, with 73% of completers progressing into employment, education, or training within the first year.
In addition to Digital Leap, we also offered participants the opportunity to join Salesforce’s Work Experience Programme. This provided them with valuable insight into working for a leading tech company, as well as the chance to connect with Salesforce staff who shared industry expertise and firsthand knowledge. Then, in March 2023, Catch22 and Salesforce were proud to win two awards, Innovator of the Year and Partner of the Year at the Movement To Work Awards for our partnership in supporting young people.
Digital Skills Academy – A new phase of partnership
Our new programme partners with schools and colleges to support disadvantaged young people and those unable to attend mainstream education, equipping them with digital skills through workshops and one-on-one sessions to help them stay in education and build a more prosperous future. In addition, the programme supports 18-24 year olds, helping them develop essential skills for further education and beyond.
Understanding the evolving digital landscape is crucial, and we must stay ahead of changes to continuously adapt our offerings and support those most in need. After nearly four years of successful delivery, Digital Leap has come to a close, making way for the exciting and much-needed launch of the Digital Skills Academy.
Find out more about Digital Skills Academy and get in touch with us if you’re working with schools, colleges, or young people who could benefit from the programme.