YOUNG people on the Isle of Wight will now have the chance to study coding at a higher level.

The Institute of Coding – a group of universities and businesses who deliver degree-level qualifications and short courses – is setting up an Island branch.

Young people will have the chance to study higher level qualifications in digital technology.

The news was announced at the second Digital Island conference, held at Cowes Yacht Haven last week.

Leader of the Isle of Wight Council, Cllr Dave Stewart, said: "This is really good news for our young people, who will be able to get access to high level technology qualifications right here on the Island through the Institute of Coding.

"This is one of many important steps we're taking to ensure our young people have great choices in higher education."

Experts from IBM, Barclays Eagle Lab and Babylon Health were among the delegates demonstrating new products at the conference, and exploring the Isle of Wight’s growing technology and digital sector.

David Prendergast, chief technical officer at Innovative Physics, one of the key speakers at the event said: “We were very pleased to be invited to showcase our award-winning AI technology to delegates at the conference.

"It is clear the Isle of Wight Council is committed to driving forward digital solutions for the Island for its growth and regeneration.

"As a business based here we find that extremely encouraging and are keen to help make the Island a world renowned centre of excellence in advanced digital techniques."