Digital skills programmes for commissioners and funders in North Devon
The Curious Academy is a North Devon digital skills training provider that councils, funders and partner organisations commission to deliver in-person programmes. We deliver two programmes: Data Analytics and a 5-week Digital Marketing for Small Business programme. Each is taught face to face, in small groups, by tutors with industry experience, and each is reported against agreed outcomes. The Curious Academy is part of The Curious Lounge CIC, a community interest company.
Practical digital skills that deliver measurable outcomes
We help the organisations you fund, and the people you support, gain the digital skills that lead to jobs, progression and business growth. Our programmes are hands-on and built around real projects, so participants leave with work they can show an employer or apply to their own business straight away.
Programmes you can commission
Data Analytics programme Builds the data skills employers increasingly look for: SQL, spreadsheet analysis and interactive dashboards. Suited to adults moving into data roles and to workforce upskilling - 12 weeks
Digital Marketing programme Covers SEO, social media, content, email, paid advertising, analytics and AI tools. Every participant delivers a live campaign for a real organisation. Suited to employability and workforce programmes - 12 weeks
Digital Marketing for Small Business (5 weeks) A short programme for sole traders, start-ups and small firms. Participants improve their website and Google visibility and leave with a 90-day marketing plan. Suited to business support and economic growth programmes. 5 weeks
Why commissioners choose The Curious Academy
Outcomes, not just completions We track what happens after the programme, including jobs, progression and business growth, and report it clearly.
In-person delivery Face-to-face learning builds routine and peer support, which helps participants stay the course, particularly those who are isolated, out of work or running a business alone.
Small cohorts Every participant receives individual attention and feedback.
Industry-led teaching Our tutors have 20+ years, of industry experience, including roles at Vodafone and Ericsson, as well as running their own businesses.
Quality assured we were rated Outstanding by Ofsted in July 2024. We also hold places on the Semrush for Education and Canva Nonprofit programmes, so participants train on professional tools.
Who we work with
Local authorities
Combined and county authorities
Growth hubs and business support services
Grant funders and charitable trusts
Employment and community programmes
Housing associations
Employers and sector bodies
Frequently asked questions
What does The Curious Academy do?
We design and deliver in-person digital skills programmes in data analytics and digital marketing, commissioned by public, charitable and private funders for the people and businesses they support.
Where do you deliver?
We're based in North Devon and deliver in community venues agreed with each commissioner. We can also deliver elsewhere in Devon and the South West.
Who are your programmes for?
Adults 19+ seeking work or a career change, employees needing new digital skills, and sole traders and small business owners. We can tailor any programme for a specific group.
How do we commission a programme?
Get in touch for an initial conversation. We'll then send a proposal covering content, timetable, cohort size, cost and outcome measures.