Businesses.. have you got IT?

Businesses in Stirling area are being urged to improve their communications systems by taking on information technology modern apprentices.

Due to the growth of the IT sector and demand for digital skills, the new one-year work-based MA programme will equip trainees with a recognisable qualification and desirable skills based either in the IT support or cyber security.

The programme covers everything from cyber security to programming and telecoms. Industry recognised diplomas (to SVQ Level 6) in either information security or information technology and telecommunications will be the goal for MAs who successfully complete the programme.

The sector alone contributed £4.45billion (Gross Value Added – GVA) to the UK government in 2014 and will be at the forefront of future job creation. In Scotland alone around 13,000 jobs in this area need to be filled each year.

Forth Valley College says it will help companies with the recruitment process, tailor the training to meet their needs and provide work based assessors and dedicated business development partners to answer any questions and deal with any issues raised during the term of an MA’s training.

FVC’s head of business development, Jennifer Tempany said: “We are confident this new MA programme could be just what businesses are looking for to meet the digital skills gap we currently have in Scotland.

“Our programme develops a broad and innovative skillset, has a strong focus on hands-on practical training and meets the requirements of a highly regulated industry.”

Information on the new IT MA programme at 01324 403000 or visit www.forthvalley.ac.uk/ITMA.