News
12th February 2026
For several years, Sunderland Software City has delivered a Digital Careers programme, funded by Sunderland City Council. The initiative has inspired over 8,000 young people across Sunderland to explore careers in tech. A new and refreshed programme will help more children and young people gain practical experience and find out about careers in the sector.
The North East tech sector has continued its growth, generating £11.6 billion in annual turnover and supporting over 61,000 jobs, yet many young people in the region still face barriers to accessing opportunities in this growing industry.
Digital Careers is now working one-to-one with groups of students from Sunderland’s schools across the year, with a year-long embedded programme. The programme delivers longer-term relationships with learners and teachers. This not only deepens the impact on each student but also helps the organisation measure what works and share those insights across the region.
Central to this approach is the Digital Innovation Challenge, where students tackle real-world business problems set by local tech companies. Each school is partnered with an industry mentor, from reputable industry specialists. They will guide students through developing digital solutions around themes like accessibility, sustainability and community innovation.
Naomi Hutchinson, Chief Innovation and Growth Officer at Sunderland City Council, says:
“We want every young person in Sunderland to see exciting futures for themselves in our city’s growing digital sector. The previous work in this space has laid the foundations for this new approach for Sunderland Digital Careers Awareness Programmes and is a brilliant example of what collaboration can achieve to create real opportunities for our young people.”
Emma McDermott, Assistant Vice Principal at Castle View Enterprise Academy, says:
“The previous programme has been truly inspiring for our students. Visiting tech businesses in the Sunderland area opened their eyes to the incredible job opportunities right on their doorstep. The interactive workshops had the ‘wow factor’ and gave students confidence to explore and demonstrate their skills. These experiences have sparked interest in future pathways and careers in this sector.”
Sunderland Software City’s real-world experience in the sector enabled them to respond to the Council’s requirements and better meet the needs of children and young people across the region, ensuring meaningful engagement with employers can build confidence, spark curiosity and open eyes to the digital opportunities on our doorstep.
Jill McKinney, Sunderland Software City and Digital Skills Council, says:
“It’s great to see the enthusiasm in the children for the tech sector. It’s our ambition to give every young person in the region insights into the tech sector and clear pathways into careers, if it’s right for them.”
Find out more about our smart city commitment to education by exploring our Networks and Solutions.
Learn more about Sunderland Software City’s approach to developing the next generation of tech talent by visiting sunderlandsoftwarecity.com.