• Adapt to Tech Shifts: AI and automation are changing the world—get ready for it.

  • Level Up Your Career: Upskilling is no longer optional; it's how you stay relevant and grow.

  • Thrive in Remote Work: Learn how to work, lead, and communicate in a digital-first world.

  • Embrace Change: Life is unpredictable—being adaptable and innovative gives you an edge.

  • Future Skills Are Essential: Without the right skills, opportunities may pass you by—invest in yourself now.

SKILLS FOR LIFE: Prepare for Whats Next

Communities

In April 2021, funded by The Data Lab, we delivered Scotland’s very first PDA in Data Science—a landmark online programme supporting learners from Edinburgh, including unemployed individuals and underrepresented groups, by equipping them with essential technical and analytical skills. The curriculum included data analysis with Python, applied statistics, data visualization, and project management.

The programme culminated in collaborative group data projects, with many graduates progressing into emerging roles across the data and tech sectors.

We even got to meet our learners as restictions lifted at the Norton Park Centre.

FUNDED BY: The Data Lab

Women Returner Programmes

We delivered this programme across eight cohorts between 2021 and 2022, supporting women re-entering the workforce. These 6 week programmes focused on building confidence, enhancing communication skills, and developing proficiency with data and digital tools such as Power BI, Excel, and SQL. The programme also offered the SQA accredited PDA in Data Science Level 7.

Many participants went on to secure digital roles in sectors including government, finance, and technology.

Funded By: Women Returners (Skills Development Scotland)

Digital Empowerment: Ukrainian Women

We adapted our innovative Women Returner programme to support Ukrainian women displaced by conflict. The programme was designed by Bianca Peel in just four weeks and delivered on a shoestring budget. To build trust and understanding, we met with the women both on a boat moored in Govan and at their base in Glasgow City Centre. Over five weeks, we supported 33 women through a tailored programme that blended digital skills training with empathy-led human skills and trauma-informed practices. As a result, many participants successfully transitioned into digital roles across various sectors.

FUNDED BY: Women Returners (Skills Development Scotland)

Data Accelerator Programmes

In 2023 we successfully delivered two 16-week Data Accelerator programmes, designed to support disadvantaged learners across Scotland. Delivered entirely online, the programme was built around the PDA in Data Science (SCQF Level 8) and offered comprehensive training in data analysis, Python, statistics, Excel, and Power BI. In addition to technical skills, participants developed essential human skills to prepare them for real workplace environments.

The programme concluded with a six-week, real-world data project, giving learners hands-on experience with industry-relevant challenges. Over 80% of those who completed the programme progressed into analyst and data focused roles

Funded By: Digital Start Fund (Skills Development Scotland)

Digital Marketing Course

We delivered this eight-week digital marketing programme in 2023. Funded by Skills Development Scotland (digital Skills Pipeline), this course was tailored for early-stage entrepreneurs, sole traders, freelancers, and job seekers, many with little or no prior marketing experience. It aimed to build both confidence and capability through a structured, supportive learning experience.

Participants gained practical tools to plan and run effective campaigns, boost their digital presence, and apply their learning directly to their business or job search. By the end, learners were better equipped to navigate the digital landscape, drive growth through strategic marketing or gain digital marketing roles.

FUNDED BY: Digital Skills Pipeline (Skills Development Scotland)

Cyber Resilience Programme

In 2024, we designed and delivered a learner-centred cyber skills programme for refugees across Scotland, in partnership with industry and refugee organisations, to support secure employment in the cyber sector. The programme combined the SQA PDA in Cyber Resilience (SCQF Level 8) with core skills in communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity.

Using design thinking, social-emotional learning, and STEAM principles, it fostered confidence, a growth mindset, and real-world readiness—empowering participants to successfully enter Scotland’s digital workforce.

Funded By: Cyber Scotland (Scottish Government)

Tayside Dundee Women and Data Programmes

From late 2024 to March 2025, two online programmes—Women and Data Skills and Neurodiverse Women in Data—ran across Tayside and Tay Cities to close the digital skills gap for women. Through online workshops, mentoring, and live projects, participants gained technical skills in Python, Excel, Power BI, Google Sheets, and SQL, along with leadership and teamwork experience. The programmes were accredited to either PDA Data Science (SCQF Level 7 or Level 8). The courses emphasised inclusion, accessibility, and industry engagement, and concluded with individual and group data projects.

“This is my first week as Information Co-ordinator at Dundee Historic Environment Trust.  Studying data science with Code Division gave me the confidence and skills to apply for a job I wouldn't have considered before, and Bianca Peel wrote me a fantastic reference.”

Amanda Information Co-ordinator

FUNDED BY: Dundee City Council and Tay Cities Region

“Taking part in this programme was a turning point for me. As someone looking to transition into data after university, I found the structured learning and real-person support invaluable—especially compared to other online courses that charge without offering real guidance. The fact that it’s SQA accredited made a big difference, as it gave my CV a recognised boost. The programming section was intense—we went from zero experience to completing full analysis cycles—but the tutors were incredibly knowledgeable and supportive throughout. What stood out most was the sense of community; I connected with like-minded people and made lasting friendships. This programme gave me real skills, hands-on experience, and the confidence to take the next step in my data career.”

Zhou System Analyst

Shorter Courses

Over the past five years, we’ve delivered numerous short digital and data courses, including bespoke training in digital marketing, Adobe Photoshop, Java, Web Technologies, and social media.

Since March 2021, through our partnership with Data Skills at Work, we've run 20+ SQA-accredited courses across Edinburgh, Southeast Scotland, and the Tay City Region, reskilling over 300 learners. Our participant base has included 85.54% women, 22.10% BAME, 16.87% neurodiverse individuals, and 29.98% refugees. Courses have covered a wide range of topics, including Data and Statistics, Data and Marketing, Python, Excel, SQL, Machine Learning, AI, and our latest offering—Data and Automation.

Funded By: Digital Skills Pipeline and Data Skills at Work

“The course helped me develop my data and statistical skills”

Christine: Data Statistician

“This course allowed me to push the organisation forward in terms of our data maturity”

Clare Head of Operational Planning

I was able to build a new career in digital marketing while caring for my baby at home.  The course gave me practical experience and flexibility, which made a big difference.

Jolene: Digital Marketing Consultant

"Having the correct python skills helped me getting my current job position. I started out as a Data Support Technician at RMSI (Scottish Power contractor), where I was working with ESRI GIS software for mapping and spatial analysis. I was soon promoted to a Data Analyst role, which gave me the opportunity to deepen my skills in data analysis using Power BI for reporting and problem-solving.”

Valentina, Principal Consultant