Sage boosts team with Gateshead College support

A software firm has bolstered its ranks through an education partnership.

Sage has welcomed ex-chef Jamie Nichol, Jeff Ho and Aneta Pawula.

The trio were recruited after taking part in Gateshead College’s Skills Bootcamps in Digital programme.

Developed through the Government’s Skills for Life campaign, the scheme helps adults upskill or retrain in talent-short sectors.

Former chef Jamie, 29, of Consett, studied software development at the college and is now an associate developer at Sage.

He said: “Changing career has been the best decision for me, and it felt so easy with the fantastic support of my teacher at Gateshead College.”

Thirty-year-old Jeff, of South Shields, emigrated to the UK in 2021 but struggled to find work despite being a skilled developer in his native Hong Kong.

However, through the bootcamps, he too is now an associate developer.

He said: “I’m very happy to have found success with Sage – it’s a great place to work and I’m enjoying my new role.”

Aneta, 32, is originally from Poland and completed a bootcamp in data engineering and analytical tools.

She has been recruited as a graduate developer.

Aneta added: “I wasn’t sure if university was right for me, so the option to complete a bootcamp was ideal.

“I found it perfect for giving me additional knowledge and ability to go into the interview with confidence.”

Phil O’Neil, Gateshead College’s head of digital technology and games, said its Sage partnership more than proves the value of its bootcamps.

He said: “These flexible and free programmes are doing exactly what they promise.

“We’re equipping people with the skills employers are looking for and providing them a stepping stone into sustainable careers.”

David Ingrouille, Sage web development manager, added: “The programme has helped us jump-start employees into technical roles by providing basic skills and knowledge they’re now building on in real jobs.”