Bring IT On is aimed at increasing the number of students planning to study for a career in IT, the programme is now in its 8th year and engages with over 40,000 learners per year. Since its launch in 2008 the Bring IT On campaign has delivered a range of online and offline programmes that engage with students and teachers, and have had a remarkable impact. Applications for IT related qualifications within Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University are up by 90% since 2008.
Speaking at the event in Northern Regional College, Magherafelt, Bring IT On's Enda McKenna, said, “Northern Ireland needs a strong skills base in IT, to meet the growing demand of the IT sector. Direct school engagement is a great way to promote IT and the rewarding careers available. Bring IT On was specifically designed to inspire and inform students about the opportunities that exist in Northern Ireland’s fastest growing sector”.
Students were informed, excited and enthused about computing as a career and were encouraged to explore options for both further education and employment. Lecturer in Computing John McFadden said ‘This was a great opportunity for students to gain an understanding of how innovative technologies are used in the workplace and the careers available. It has also allowed students to think about setting up their own business in the IT industry.”
Delivering the Bring IT On message directly to schools is part of the wider Bring IT On campaign – an initiative led by IT3Sixty, in partnership with the Department for Employment and Learning and Invest NI.
For further information on Computing courses at Northern Regional College please visit www.nrc.ac.uk. Open Evening at the Magherafelt Campus is Tuesday 1st March 6-8pm.
