SOC to Create 100+ EdTech Jobs and Empower the Next Generation

Birmingham is set to experience a transformative wave in education and technology, as the Wolverhampton-based School of Coding & AI, a leading software training school, opens its newest 12000 sq ft campus on Livery Street. This development, spearheaded by the School of Coding & AI is expected to produce over 100 new EdTech positions in the city, cementing Birmingham’s increasing reputation as a digital innovation hub. The School of Coding & AI’s new centre seeks to equip the next generation of tech and digital workers, meeting the growing demand for qualified personnel in the technology sector. 

A Journey of Innovation and Growth

Founded in 2017, the School of Coding & AI has quickly developed from a local educational effort to a globally known institution in the UK’s IT industry. What began as a tiny endeavour to make coding education more accessible to children and adults has grown to include courses in coding, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), and software development for thousands of students across the UK.

The institution’s aim has always been to bridge the digital skills gap in the UK by preparing students for future careers in technology-driven businesses. From after-school coding clubs to corporate training for enterprises, the School of Coding & AI has established itself as the key player in creating the future workforce. 

Recognitions and Awards

The School of Coding & AI’s commitment to excellence and innovation has not been overlooked. Throughout the years, it has garnered numerous prizes and industry accolades. One of the organisation’s most recent notable achievements is that its founder and CEO, Manny Athwal, was awarded the prestigious Great British Entrepreneur Award 2024, recognising his innovative leadership and the organisation’s substantial contributions to education and the technology community.

In addition to this accolade, the School of Coding & AI has been recognised by educational institutions and government programs for its efforts to make technology education more accessible and inclusive. Its affiliations with major corporations, colleges, and local governments have enhanced its profile, allowing it to reach a diverse range of learners across the UK.

Birmingham: A Strategic Move for Growth

The choice to expand into Birmingham was strategic. Birmingham, with its strong IT ecosystem and diverse, young population, provides an ideal environment for developing future tech talent. The School of Coding & AI hopes to capitalise on this potential by developing a hub on Livery Street, offering residents cutting-edge training in software development, AI, and cybersecurity.

When asked about the expansion, CEO Manny Athwal expressed excitement: 

“Birmingham is a city with enormous potential and a vibrant tech scene. Our objective has always been to democratise access to technology education, and this new hub will help us reach more people and provide them with the skills they need to prosper in the digital economy. We are not only creating jobs; we are also establishing careers and changing lives.”

This expansion is expected to create over 100 new EdTech positions while also encouraging collaborations with local schools, institutions, and businesses. The School of Coding & AI intends to provide a diverse range of courses, from introductory coding workshops for children to advanced AI and data science programs for individuals seeking to upskill or transfer into digital employment. 

Driving Social Impact

At the heart of the School of Coding & AI’s mission is a commitment to social impact. The organisation has a historical record of collaborating with under-represented groups, such as women, ethnic minorities, and low-income individuals, to ensure that technology education is available to all. This ethos will be essential to its operations in Birmingham, where it intends to work with community organisations to reach those who may not have previously had access to such opportunities.

In addition, the new hub will act as a platform for innovation and creativity, hosting hackathons, coding challenges, and networking events to support Birmingham’s strong tech community. The School of Coding & AI seeks to provide a platform where ambitious computer professionals may learn, interact, and invent thus contributing to Birmingham’s economic growth and digital transformation. 

CEO Manny Athwal’s Vision for the Future

Manny Athwal, the visionary of the School of Coding & AI, has always been passionate about education and technology. His journey from software engineer to successful entrepreneur demonstrates his commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. Under his leadership, the organisation’s reach and effect have grown, revolutionising how technology education is offered in the UK.

Athwal’s vision for the future transcends national bounds. He anticipates the School of Coding & AI being a global leader in technology education, with ambitions to enter overseas markets in the future years. The Birmingham hub’s opening is only the first stage in this ambitious journey.

“Our goal is to create a network of tech hubs across the UK and beyond, where people from all walks of life can come together to learn, innovate, and thrive. We believe that technology has the potential to change lives, and we are committed to making that change a reality for as many people as possible.”

Looking Ahead: The Road to Success

As the School of Coding & AI begins this new chapter in Birmingham, the future seems bright. The demand for digital skills continues to rise, as does the need for schools that can deliver high-quality, accessible education. By establishing its presence in Birmingham, the School of Coding & AI not only meets this demand but also contributes to the city’s image as an innovation and technological hub.

The success of this development will most certainly pave the way for additional growth, both in the UK and worldwide. With a solid foundation, a clear vision, and a dedication to excellence, the School of Coding & AI is well-positioned to shape the future of technology education and provide possibilities for future generations.

Birmingham embraces this new centre as more than just a learning centre; it is a beacon of opportunity, creativity, and transformation, bringing the power of technology to the heart of the city.