ICT steering group

Box UK’s Head of Operations Stuart Arthur has recently been selected to jointly chair a new ICT steering group, joining representatives from education, industry and the media in working with the Welsh Government to help determine the future direction of computer science and ICT learning in schools.

The announcement follows last November’s seminar on the role of ICT in the National Curriculum, where Stuart delivered a presentation on the challenges faced by schools, and the ways that the teaching of ICT could be enhanced and extended.

Improving ICT skills

The steering group is responsible for producing a report detailing expert recommendations on progressing the provision of ICT education across Wales, where the IT sector is a core economic driver, directly employing over 12,000 people. By increasing access to ICT learning resources, the Welsh Government hopes to support the continued growth of this key sector and enable school leavers to contribute to the wider Welsh economy.

Industry insight

Stuart’s wealth of experience working in a commercial software development environment provides the group with insight into current ICT trends, technologies and processes, as well as specific guidance on the skills desired by employers and how these may be acquired through a practical, hands-on approach to learning.

Speaking about the announcement, Stuart said: “It’s an incredibly exciting time for ICT in Wales, and the partnership we’re seeing between the government and industry is vital to its continuing growth and development. By recognising the importance of ICT in the National Curriculum we will be able to provide school leavers with transferable skills that will increase their ability to secure employment, whether directly in the sector or elsewhere.”

Report publication

The steering group’s report is due to be published later in the year, with Box UK committed to supporting the Welsh Government in the implementation of recommended actions. More information can be found on the Welsh Government website.

———

About the Welsh Government

The Welsh Government is the devolved Government for Wales working to help improve the lives of people in Wales and make the nation a better place in which to live and work.

About Box UK

Box UK is a team of thought leaders, consultants and application developers engaged in the rapid and precise design and delivery of high-performance software products and services for progressive enterprises worldwide. Established in 1998, Box UK’s client list includes BBC, LAN Airlines, Investec Asset Management, the National Gallery, Chartered Institute for IT, EDF Energy and Severn Trent Plc.