Setting the standard for digital design
Layers Studio is a North East design and development agency specialising in branding, website development, software, and applications. With a team of designers and developers, they aim to support clients and use their skills and experience to ensure the highest-quality user experience. We sat down with Alex Waddell, Senior Developer, to learn why they want to deliver Skills Bootcamps as part of Tech Talent Ready. They delivered their first bootcamp with us on Full Stack Development!
Supporting the talent in the region
Alex and the team at Layers Studio are proud to be part of the North East tech scene and want to support those in the area who want to find a role as a digital designer or developer. Working with us, they were able to support people outside of higher education looking to find a tech career.
“We’ve worked with T-Level students from Gateshead College and Newcastle College, but we have never worked with bootcampers before. It was a great experience as it brought together people from different backgrounds.”
Starting from scratch
Tech Talent Ready offers anyone, regardless of experience, the opportunity to learn new skills, grow their network, and develop their confidence. Throughout the bootcamp, Layers supported people looking to upskill and find a career and those who were interested in the idea but were unsure if it was the right choice for them.
“Everyone has strengths and weaknesses, so the course gives people the opportunity to find their interests and develop them into a passion through experience”.
Their course introduced our cohort to the essential components of web development, including HTML, JavaScript, CSS and PHP. The bootcampers were tasked with making a music player application which would use all the skills necessary as a full-stack developer. The first week included learning the basics of designing a visually appealing product as a front-end developer. Later, they implemented data as a back-end developer to make their products more interactive with live data being displayed.
“We talk about the creative element, to visualise is a great tool for people. Then, we move on to changing it from static to dynamic with live content. We allow them to learn as a full-stack developer.”
Don’t get caught in the numbers
With the development of new programming languages, people often think that they should prioritise knowing the most to stand out from the crowd. Working in Layers introduces people to how the design industry operates. Communication and collaboration are key to working as a developer. The bootcamp helps people learn to work together as a team and grow their confidence as individuals.
“When technical issues occurred, we saw people working with each other to tackle the problem and encourage each other. This reflects Layers and our collaborative working environment.”
First steps to a future in tech
During their time with Layers Studio, everyone was provided with resources to revise when necessary and received regular checkups to see how their projects were going and if they required any feedback or support. They were encouraged to work as a team and independently, which is common practice for a team of developers.
“Teaching someone is helping them become reliant and self-efficient. Layers provide that environment so after their time with us, they’ll be able to continue working on developing their skills as a hobby or future career path.”
Would Layers do the bootcamp again?
“It’s a great way to learn and stand out. The tech industry today is booming, and development is an important part of that. There is a lot of talent looking to upskill themselves in the region. The bootcamp is amazing for those looking to become part of the North East tech scene.”
“We want to support the talent in the North East and help grow tomorrow’s technical landscape.”
What’s next for Layers?
Layers is offering an introduction to UI/UX design Skills Bootcamp this month. You don’t need any prior skills. If you’re looking to develop as a creative in design or marketing, this bootcamp will be a great way to kick-start your career. Don’t miss out and register here.
