Archibald announces 40 high quality training places on two Assured Skills Academies with Version 1

Date published: 22 October 2025

Fully funded by the Department for the Economy, the Academies have been developed in partnership with Belfast Met and will allow the successful applicants to develop their IT skillsets and earn industry-recognised qualifications.

Participants who successfully complete the eight-week Academy will be guaranteed an interview for a job role with Version 1 in Belfast.

Encouraging applications the Minister said: “This is an excellent opportunity to develop new skills and open a valuable pathway into software or digital engineering. Through the provision of cutting-edge training on the latest technologies, delivered by Belfast Met, successful applicants can upskill or reskill with industry-recognised qualifications for a career in this exciting sector.

“I would urge anyone who meets the eligibility criteria and is interested in a career within software or digital engineering to apply.”

Lorna McAdoo, Head of Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) & Northern Ireland, Version 1, commented: “We are privileged to be partnering once again with the Department for the Economy and Belfast Met to deliver two new Assured Skills Academies. These Academies have been instrumental in supporting our growth in Northern Ireland, providing a pipeline of talented individuals who bring fresh perspectives and energy to our teams. We’re focused on continuing to invest in local skills and helping shape the future of digital services in the region.”

Participants in the Version 1 Digital Skills Academies will study for industry recognised accreditation and skills in areas such as Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900), Cisco Introduction to Cybersecurity and Java.

Damian Duffy, Interim Principal and Chief Executive at Belfast Metropolitan College said: “Belfast Met is delighted to be continuing its collaboration with Version 1. These two new DfE-funded Academies will offer participants the chance to develop in-demand skills in areas such as cloud, software and AI. These fields are critical in strengthening the regional skills base and supporting the continued growth of Northern Ireland’s digital economy.

“Our excellent teaching teams will provide hands-on, industry-aligned training that prepares participants for exciting new career pathways. We look forward to welcoming the new cohorts and seeing them benefit from the opportunities this partnership provides.”

Experience is not required but applicants must be at least 18 years old and hold at least a 2:2 degree in any discipline, or a level 5 qualification in a relevant STEM subject at the point of application.

Training will be delivered using a hybrid approach, with onsite learning at a Belfast Met campus combined with some virtual classes.

Training for the first academy will commence on 19 January 2026 and complete on 13 March 2026 with a proposed employment start date of 16 March 2026.

The second academy will commence on 2 February 2026 and complete on the 27 March 2026 with a proposed employment start date of 30 March 2026.

Participants will receive a weekly training allowance of £180 for the duration of the Academy, as well as help with travel and childcare costs.

Applications are open now and close at noon on Friday 14 November 2025.

More information and details on how to apply are available on the nidirect website.