Waterloo scheme offers ‘digital boot camp’ for Lambeth young adults

Throughout July, award-winning web developer Alasdair Blackwell will take 16 students through an intensive course designed to hone their tech skills for the fast-changing job market.

At the end of the month, selected students will receive short-term job placements with London firms.

The four-week Digital Futures course, which is free, teaches how to code, build apps and get to grips with online marketing. Personal mentors will be on hand for career advice and support.

Ad part of their training, students will build an interactive performance app and showcase it at Southbank Centre's Strive Festival this August.

"This is a truly exciting opportunity," said Alasdair Blackwell.

"It's all about creativity and having fun while you learn. And the prospect of a festival event at the end is a real bonus for anyone's CV."

Course organiser Sheila Wallis of The Bridge at Waterloo said: "This is a completely new programme, funded by the Walcott Foundation, that will help young people in Lambeth equip themselves for work."

To apply for a place on Digital Futures, email Sheila at: [email protected]

The Bridge at Waterloo is a £3 million project created by St John's Waterloo to reduce local youth unemployment and unlock the potential of local people.