Employers & Sponsors

Student attending an employer workshop with electrical retailer Currys

Student listening to an employee at BAE Systems in a laboratory enviornment

Students watching a drone flying in a classroom environment

Currys

Employer and sponsor partners

We operate a nationally recognised Digital Skills Project, alongside Workshops, Events & Activities, bringing together employers, charities, and education providers to deliver immersive, real-world digital experiences for students aged 16 to 19.

Through this model, employers and sponsors play a central role in shaping the next generation of digital talent, helping to close the UK digital skills gap while gaining direct access to emerging young talent.

The Digital Skills projects, workshops and events are delivered in collaboration with a wide range of organisations across technology, media, finance, consultancy, cybersecurity, law enforcement and public services.

These organisations contribute through mentoring, live briefs, workshops, judging panels, site visits, and final showcase events.

Role of Employers

Employers are embedded directly into the learning journey, contributing to authentic workplace experiences for students and teachers.

Live Industry Briefs

Students work on real challenges set or supported by employers, including themes such as:

Cybersecurity and fraud prevention
Digital inclusion and NEET engagement
Sustainability and circular economy technology
Education innovation and gamified learning
Public service and social impact solutions

Employer-Led Workshops

Students in hi viz jackets standing in front of a Currys branded wall Industry professionals deliver interactive sessions covering, helping students understand current industry expectations & workplace standards:

UX and product design
Cybersecurity and digital safety
AI, data, and automation
Branding, marketing, and communications
Career readiness and professional skills

Workplace Exposure & Site Visits

Employers open their environments to students, including:

Corporate offices and headquarters
Training academies and operational centres
Media, technology, and logistics facilities

Students have visited employer environments such as technology HQ’s and retail & logistics centres, gaining hands-on exposure.

Final Showcase & Judging Panels

A student speaking in front of an audience

Each programme cycle culminates in a national final hosted in professional environments, such as a major media or corporate venue.
Employers participate as:

Judges and evaluators
Keynote speakers
Talent spotters
Mentors and career advisors

Value for Employers & Sponsors

Organisations participating in the Digital Skills projects, workshops & events benefit from:

Early access to emerging digital talent (16-19 cohort pipeline)
Meaningful CSR and social impact engagement
Brand visibility within education and skills development programmes
Contribution to addressing the UK digital skills gap
Opportunities to support apprenticeships and early careers pathways
Direct engagement with colleges and FE institutions across the UK