Welcome to ‘App Camp’

As three of eight lucky students selected by leading IT company, Kainos, computer whiz kids Shannon Holgate, Kyle Davidson and Stuart McKee are now taking part in a two month intensive programme where they will learn everything required to design and develop applications (apps) for Apple’s iconic iPhone and iPad.

By partnering the students with the highly experienced team of developers at Kainos, Belfast, the App Camp initiative aims to develop and strengthen the skills base of NI’s undergraduates.

Over the eight week course they will be trained in all aspects of App development – from identifying gaps in the app market, hardware and software development to graphic design and marketing. The end result will be the creation of new Apps which are fit for iPhone and iPad users worldwide.

As well as developing programming and wider IT skills, the course also offers ‘foot in the door’ job opportunities to those who may be interested in developing a long-term career with Kainos.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Kyle Davidson, who is studying Computing with Education at Coleraine said: “We’re really delighted to have been selected by Kainos and thrilled to be learning all we can about this exciting and fast moving sector of the market. We also regard this as a very important career development tool – one which is not only practical in nature but which will help set us apart when it comes to looking for a job after graduation.”

Tom Gray, Chief Technology Officer at Kainos says: “This exciting new programme is designed specifically to hothouse the brightest and best new, raw talent. This is a fantastic way to engage with bright, young undergraduates by finding out first-hand what they have to offer, and helping them hone and shape their skills for commercial success.

By the end of the App Camp, the goal is for the students to launch their app on the official Apple App Store . Each student will also be presented with an Apple Macbook and iPod Touch to enable them to carry on their development work while at University.