Three of NOW Group’s Digital Academy participants have successfully completed their 12-week placements with Danske Bank. To celebrate the completion of their placements, Danske Bank hosted a graduation event at their HQ.
We are delighted that three participants, Thomas, Thomas, and Mark, had the opportunity to work with Danske Bank’s data team for 12 weeks. Here they developed their skills in data analytics and visualisation. They also gained experience in using systems such as Tableau and Alteryx.
Our Digital Academy was created to help people with neurodiverse conditions find a route into careers within the technology sector. Through this programme participants can gain qualifications in data analytics and take part in work placements within leading businesses in the field of technology.
Analytics Engineer Michelle McNicholl, who mentored the three Academy placement students, said:
“Facilitating the placements has been a real team effort, from colleagues across the bank presenting on different topics, to our IT team facilitating time each week for one of our placement students who developed an interest in that side of our operations. It’s been great to work with Thomas, Thomas and Mark develop their skills whilst gaining hands on experience in our team. We’ve seen them gain confidence in both their work and their interpersonal skills along the way, and hope they leave us better equipped with the skills needed to transition into a potential career in the digital sector.”
Sean Hanna, the Programmes Manager for NOW Group, added:
“We know that businesses across Northern Ireland need staff with digital experience. Our academy is specifically targeting people with disabilities who don’t always feel that they fit in in mainstream provision but provide a valuable service in entry level digital positions. NOW Group works with businesses like Danske Bank to help them understand the value of having a neurodiverse workforce and the competitive advantages this brings. We are delighted that Danske Bank funded and participated in this important programme and provided our participants with an invaluable work experience that will support them to gain a digital job with a future.”
We are delighted to have the Digital Academy is sponsored by Danske Bank and Leaf IT. It is the only one of its kind in Northern Ireland and it is making a difference to those with neurodiverse conditions. To learn more about NOW Group’s services and how you can get involved visit our website today.