Camden Council has become the first in the UK to join Google’s Career Certificates programme.
It is aimed at boosting the employment prospects for local people through equipping them with skills in specialism such as IT support, data analytics, project management and user experience design.
Google – which has its UK headquarters in Camden – is providing the council with up to 500 licences, which will be offered free of charge to learners in the borough.
The programme began in Camden last week with indications that it can take learners up to six months to earn a certificate, and that they need to complete the studies by the end of the year when the licences expire.
The council is encouraging 16-18 year-olds in its schools to take advantage of the offer and incorporating it into its apprenticeships and Kickstart programme.
Supporting people
Councillor Danny Beales, cabinet member for investing in communities, culture and inclusive economy, said: “We must do everything we can to support people into well paid and secure employment and are excited to be working with Google on this fantastic programme, which will enable so many people to gain new skills for free and put them on a fast track to in-demand jobs in technology, finance, energy and other sectors, which will in the next decade see significant new jobs created in the knowledge economy.”
First launched in August 2020, the programme also provides a route for learners to liaise with potential employers.
Image from iStock, amyaberkut
