Unique training programme launches in response to growing demand for developers in Bath and Bristol
Bath-based software house, Mayden, has announced the launch of Mayden Academy: a unique,
employer-led intensive training opportunity for entry level software engineers, based at the firm’s
new offices in the centre of Bath.
Bath and Bristol were recently noted as being the biggest tech cluster outside London. As demand
for software engineers grows across the country, the continued success of Bath’s tech sector
depends upon the retention and growth of developer talent.
The Academy takes an innovative approach, offering structured learning to trainees and allowing
them to gain the hands-on experience of working with a team on commercial development
projects. It aims to plug the gap between the theory that is learnt in formal education and the
practical work experience that employers seek.
With a first intake in September 2015, the programme will engage individuals who have little to no
prior coding knowledge. It will enable them to earn as they learn the fundamentals of coding,
software design and project management using the latest technologies under the guidance of
experts and mentors. The opportunity will appeal to ambitious, driven individuals looking to fast
track their entry to a career in software development, either following their ‘A’ levels, after college
or university, or as a career change.
After six months, Mayden hopes that trainees will be ready to take up permanent roles with the
company as software engineers and to continue their learning and professional development.
Mayden invites prospective trainees and the local media to attend an open day on Thursday
July 9 from 4:30-6:30 pm at their office at One Widcombe Crescent to learn more about the
opportunity. Details are available at www.maydenacademy.co.uk
Mayden Academy is generously supported by the Department of Business Innovation and Skills
(BIS) via the Employer Ownership of Skills (EOS) Fund, a national initiative to fund employer-led
training in sectors where there are recognised skills shortages. Mayden was introduced to this
funding scheme and guided to apply by the West of England Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).
Skills Minister Nick Boles explains, “We listened when employers told us they needed more
support to improve the skills of their workforce. The investment from the Employer Ownership of
Skills Fund helps companies like Mayden train the next generation of engineers while our
Trailblazers programme also puts employers in control of the training apprentices receive. Our
reforms are ensuring talented working people have the skills needed to start a successful career
and will give companies the boost to help grow their business.”
“We’re delighted to be able to offer such a valuable opportunity to individuals seeking a new
career in software development,” commented Mayden’s founder and managing director Chris
May, “and we’re very grateful to have the support of BIS and the West of England LEP whose
initiatives are helping to address the growing demand for software engineering talent in our
region.”
Photo Opportunity
Thursday 9th July at 4:30 pm, One Widcombe Crescent, Bath for the arrival of The Right
Worshipful The Mayor of Bath Councillor Will Sandry, followed by an open day for prospective
students and the media.
Please contact becca.astrop@mayden.co.uk and alison.sturgess@mayden.co.uk for further information and to confirm your attendance.
