The OU and Institute of Coding tackle AI and cyber skills gap with free courses

Posted on 28 April 2025 • Science, maths, computing and technology

The Open University (OU) has teamed up with the Institute of Coding (IoC) to offer free cyber, coding and AI courses to 18-35 year-olds across the UK.

The programme, named Click Start with The Open University, is part of a nationwide initiative funded by Nominet and uses a combination of the OU’s internationally renowned education and real-world insights from employers to help equip young people with digital skills and knowledge at no cost to themselves or the employer.

Whether it’s to kickstart a career, progress in a current role, or secure a dream job, Click Start aims to provide the support and skills needed to flourish in an ever-growing digital job market.

Andrew Smith, Senior Lecturer and Academic Programme Lead at the OU, said:

“Click Start with The Open University offers young adults a unique opportunity to gain essential digital and career skills at no cost. With flexible learning paths in cyber security, coding, and AI, this programme empowers learners to build confidence and enhance their career prospects in a wide range of industries as the digital landscape rapidly evolves”.

Tackling a growing digital skills gap

The programme has been created to be as flexible as possible, offering part-time learning tailored for busy individuals, wherever they are in the UK. This includes self-directed online learning, forum support, and regular webinars from experts, employers, and career coaches.

Click Start also aims to tackle a growing digital skills gap. A report from the OU found that 74% of employers believed that adopting new technologies would positively impact the productivity of their organisation, and a further 41% said skills gaps were negatively impacting productivity.

Jane Dickinson, Digital Skills Lead at the OU, commented on the developing need for digital training:

“Skills in cyber security, coding, and artificial intelligence are key building blocks for future economic competitiveness, productivity and growth for both the UK and individual businesses. Click Start with The Open University equips young UK adults with these critical skills to help them adapt to technological changes in the workplace and play their part in the digital transformation they will deliver.

“By building expertise in these areas, learners are not only future-proofing their careers but offering organisations the foundational skills they need to achieve productivity gains and growth”.

Professor Rachid Hourizi MBE, Institute of Coding (IoC) Director, said:

“We’re excited to collaborate with The Open University on the Click Start programme, funded by Nominet. This initiative is all about providing young adults with the opportunity to gain essential skills in cyber security, coding, and AI. By making these courses accessible and free, we’re helping to break down barriers to education and employment. It’s a chance for individuals to build their confidence and find their place in the digital economy, supported by the OU’s renowned expertise and educational excellence.”

The programme runs until 30 September 2025. To learn more and apply, visit the website.

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