Learners on the T-Level Digital Production, Design, and Development course recently had an exciting opportunity to showcase their skills and learn new coding tips at a unique hackathon, in collaboration with local businesses.
Loughborough-based creative tech organisations Compound and Graffio organised the event, serving as a chance for both the College and local businesses to build a mutually beneficial relationship, allowing employers the autonomy to talk with students about placement opportunities.
In turn, the College developed new relationships with local organisations, and students were given exclusive opportunities to work on new digital programmes including Axiom, Coda, and Make.
All sixteen first year students took part in the event, using low level coding programmes to allow for fair chances to show their skills. For learners who have already accepted industry placements, the hackathon was a fantastic enrichment activity allowing them the chance to work with industry professionals and advance their knowledge.
Working in five groups, learners had hands-on experience to enhance their interpersonal and communication skills, develop technical abilities, and discover what key assets are required to work in the digital world. Compound and Graffio team members supported students on a walkthrough of their programmes before learners held presentations and team building sessions.
Learners also competed for prizes, working to a scoring criterion of functionality, interactivity, presentation, and teamwork.
Jesse Jackson, T-Level tutor who oversaw the hackathon shared, “Working closely with local employers and empowering them to identify young and emerging talent from the offset supports us as providers to better signpost learners into industry.
“Both Compound and Graffio were so impressed with our learners, and they recognised the high quality of the work produced. The hackathon was the first of its kind at College and demonstrates Loughborough as a destination for upcoming talent. This will only grow with the development of the Institute of Technology, and the Digital Skills Hub. We can continue to build upon our network and go from strength to strength.”