Creative and Digital Skills Provision Researcher (2025)

Throughout 2026 and 2027 Extending XR will provide free creative technology skills training to enable learners and tutors in York and North Yorkshire to harness the potential of digital tools and technologies including game engines and performance capture technologies.

I was commissioned by XR Stories, part of the University of York, to undertake a high level review and mapping of current formal and informal digital creative skills provision and associated support across York and North Yorkshire.

I identified strengths, gaps, and opportunities within existing skills provision to support the establishment of a cohesive regional creative digital skills ecosystem.

Responsibilities:

1.) Research and Mapping

• I conducted high level research into formal (e.g., colleges, universities, accredited courses, local authority funded bootcamps) and informal (e.g., community workshops, short courses, hangouts) digital creative skills provision across Y&NY.

• I developed a database of providers, provision types, target audiences, delivery approaches, and geographical distribution.

2.) Engagement and Stakeholder Liaison

• I engaged actively with existing training providers, creative industry networks, community groups, local authorities, and stakeholders across York and North Yorkshire.

3.) Analysis and Reporting

• I conducted a gap analysis to highlight areas of unmet need or duplication within the regional skills landscape.

• I recommended potential partnerships and collaborative opportunities that aligned with the Extending XR project's objectives.

• I prepared a report and set of recommendations for the Extending XR project team.

Extending XR is supported by David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire and funded by the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority.