IT training needs more government support

Study for professional IT qualifications is usually self funded

IT skills provider Computeach has challenged the government to provide more support for adult learners looking to retrain in IT.

The government already provides grants for adults to improve their basic numeracy and literacy skills, and for national vocational qualification (NVQ) studies.

But there is no specific funding for those looking to switch into an IT based career through study in professional IT qualifications, the training company has complained during Adult Learners Week.

“With a significant skills gap in industries demanding professional qualifications such as IT, there needs to be support for individuals to move from one industry to the next,” said Computeach chairman Karl Parkinson.

Computeach believes the government should help not only through grants, but also through provisions for flexible working that help workers find the time to study IT courses.