Raspberry Pi Foundation has chosen Greater Manchester to launch its cutting edge Certificate in Applied Computing
The Course includes AI and machine learning skills for students aged 14-19
So far young people from 7 schools have taken part in initial pilot – which will be expanded across Greater Manchester in the coming year
It’s available through the MBacc, the city-region’s ambitious plan to transform technical education and create a clear line of sight to high quality jobs in our growing economy.
The new online course equips 14–19-year-olds with essential digital skills — from visual communication and data handling to web design and an introduction to AI.
The qualification is designed for students who may not have chosen traditional computing qualifications, the course is free, self-paced, and requires no teacher marking, helping young people take ownership of their learning.
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said:
“This new certificate from Raspberry Pi Foundation is exactly the kind of innovation we had in mind when we launched the MBacc. It gives young people real digital skills that employers are crying out for and shows Greater Manchester doing what devolution allows us to do best: responding to local need with bold, practical solutions.
“We’ve made huge progress in just one year, thanks to the commitment of our schools, colleges and employers. The Growth Company has done outstanding work to drive up T Level placements across the city region, and Raspberry Pi Foundation’s contribution shows the power of working together to build something better.
“Now we’re asking more employers to get involved. Together we can show the country what a future-focused technical education system looks like and give every young person in Greater Manchester a clear path to a good job.”
Rachel Arthur, Chief Learning Officer, Raspberry Pi Foundation, said: “We’re proud to launch our new Certificate in Applied Computing with Greater Manchester – a place that shares our belief in giving all young people the tools they need to thrive.
“This new initiative is about unlocking opportunities. As a former computer science teacher, I know how important it is to give students hands-on, practical experience to understand technology and use it confidently. The certificate combines this knowledge with insight from local employers, to give more young people a clear pathway to access rewarding jobs – whatever their ambitions may be.”
