Manchester United Foundation help launch Digital Academy to guide under represented students

Manchester United Foundation have teamed up with DXC Technology (DXC) to provide a match-winning education program for secondary school pupils in the Greater Manchester area.

Aimed at developing key social and technical skills for the students, the DXC Digital Futures Academy has been launched to help empower young people and connect them to opportunities they ordinarily may not have access to. It will strive to enhance their career prospects and future opportunities.

Fifty pupils aged 12-13 will be selected for the initial four-year initiative. During that time, they will each be taught important technology skills that span several key areas; including automation, virtual reality, security and professional development.

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DXC experts have helped to create the Digital Futures Academy curriculum, along with Manchester United Foundation and teacher advisory groups from the Manchester area. At the end of the program, students will be supported with pathways into further education, colleges, apprenticeships and employment.

Schools taking part in the scheme are Stretford High School, Great Academy Ashton, Middleton Technology School, Manchester Academy, Whalley Range 11-18 High School and Levenshulme High School.

Speaking about the initiative, Mary Finch, executive vice president and chief human resources officer at DXC Technology, said: "We are proud to partner with Manchester United Foundation and use our technology skills to drive positive impact in local communities.

"With the Digital Futures Academy, our colleagues will use energy, passion and technical expertise to educate and inspire young people in their academic and professional journeys."

John Shiels MBE, who is chief