The primary focus of the sessions, organised by SWC, was to highlight the wide range of careers available in one of the fastest-growing industries and to open current students' minds to the diversity of options in this exciting and ever-changing sector.

A Bring IT On interactive workshop on the exciting opportunities available in IT was delivered by Peter Waugh, Sentinus in the Omagh Campus and Jack McCready, Sentinus in the Erne Campus. The Omagh Campus students heard guest presentations from Martin Cassidy, Omagh Volunteer Centre and Claire Browne, Technical Support Officer, South West College. Erne Campus students heard from Michelle Martin, All State NI.

Attendees were informed of possible careers in the IT profession, volunteering opportunities and received valuable insight into what a day working in IT looks like. During the sessions, students also had the opportunity to work in groups and were able to interact with the guest speakers, allowing current students to make better-informed choices and gain a more in-depth insight into the industry.

Speaking at the event Jack McCready, (Sentinus) Bring IT On, said: “Bring IT On aims to inform and enthuse young people about possible careers in the IT industry. Through a combination of presentation and group work activities, the pupils were asked to consider both the benefits of an IT career and the available pathways into an IT job.

Martin Cassidy, the volunteer coordinator from Omagh Volunteer Centre, who came in to talk about how volunteering can help with gaining employment, said: “Todays labour market is super competitive, so any experience you have to put on a CV or discuss during an interview can only help. Through volunteering you can test the water and gain experience in various roles and industries all whilst gaining valuable workplace competencies such as teamwork, leadership, communication, and for me most importantly confidence. To find out more about volunteering and the opportunities available, please visit www.omaghvolunteercentre.org.”

South West College currently offers a wide range of Computing and Cyber Security courses from Level 2 to 6, with HLA options. To find out more or to apply see below.

Computing and Cyber Security courses

Cisco Digital Safety and Security Awareness

Online Further Education Computing and ICT Level 1 Part-Time

This is a self-paced online course. Are you ready to take control of your online safety? As the digital world evolves, it offers incredible opportunities but also presents unique challenges. Building on the foundational knowledge from the Digital Awareness course, this beginner-friendly Digital Safety and Security Awareness course equips you with practical s...

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Cisco Introduction to Modern AI

Online Further Education Computing and ICT Level 1 Part-Time

This is a self-paced online course. AI chatbots are revolutionising the way we work and learn. Millions of people worldwide use them to simplify tasks like homework and ideating, writing, editing and even career advice. If you are new to AI and ready to give it a try, look no further! Introduction to Modern AI is a beginner-friendly course designed to help y...

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Cisco Introduction to Cybersecurity

Online Further Education Computing and ICT Level 1 Part-Time

This is an online self-paced course.

This introductory course takes you inside the world of cybersecurity. Cybersecurity professionals who can protect and defend an organization’s network are in high demand.

You will achieve a digital badge.

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Level 2 Traineeship in IT

Dungannon Enniskillen Omagh Apprenticeships Computing and ICT Level 2 Full-Time

This traineeship is aimed at learners interested in following a career path in IT/Computing who have achieved less than four GCSEs at Grade C . This course provides a practical, work related introduction to Computing and IT. Learners will also be able to develop and enhance their employability skills through this traineeship.

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Ulster University Foundation Degree in Science in Computing (HLA)

Dungannon Higher Education Computing and ICT Level 5 Part-Time

This course is designed around the computing requirements of local industry. Learners will gain the knowledge, understanding and design skills to formulate solutions to computing problems and the practical skills to implement those solutions. Additionally, ‘soft’ skills will be developed in teamwork, communications, professional practice and time management. This course is offere...

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Ulster University Foundation Degree in Science in Computing

Dungannon Enniskillen Omagh Higher Education Computing and ICT Level 5 Full-Time Part-Time

This course is designed around the computing requirements of local industry. Learners will gain the knowledge, understanding and design skills to formulate solutions to computing problems and the practical skills to implement those solutions.

Additionally, ‘soft’ skills will be developed in teamwork, communications, professional practice and time management.

View Ulster University Foundation Degree in Science in Computing

BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Information Technology (RQF) (Equivalent to 3 A-Levels)

Dungannon Enniskillen Omagh Further Education Computing and ICT Level 3 Full-Time

This course is a specialist, work-related qualification in Computing.

It is a 2 year taught course consisting of 13 units, which is equivalent to 3 A Levels.

Units are assessed either internally (9) or externally (4) and are both practical and theory based. This course will be taught through lectures, demonstrations, workshops and group work.

View BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Information Technology (RQF) (Equivalent to 3 A-Levels)

Cisco IT Essentials Part 1 - PC Hardware And Software

Dungannon Further Education Computing and ICT Level 2 Part-Time

This course provides an excellent introduction to the IT industry and interactive exposure to personal computers, hardware, and operating systems. Students participate in hands-on activities and lab-based learning to become familiar with various hardware and software components and discover best practice in maintenance and safety. In addition, PC Hardware and Software covers the followi...

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BSc (Hons) Computing Science (Top-Up) (Validated by The Open University)

Dungannon Enniskillen Higher Education Computing and ICT Level 6 Full-Time Part-Time

This BSc (Hons) Computing Science (Top Up) programme aims to produce high quality graduates who have obtained the relevant competencies to undertake roles within one of the many computing disciplines. The programme has been developed to produce professional and competent employees for the computing industry. South West College is approved by The Open University as an appropriat...

View BSc (Hons) Computing Science (Top-Up) (Validated by The Open University)