London has long been known as a global banking capital, but in recent years the city has emerged as a thriving hub for tech. And the sector's growth is accelerating: 2022 saw a 21% increase in tech company incorporations in the English capital, with the nearly 25,000 new startups accounting for over half of new tech operations UK-wide.
With the explosion of tech operations have come heightened demand for skilled workers who can leverage coding skills and other technical skills to support digital marketing, web development, software engineering, data analytics, and machine learning initiatives. In May 2022, job openings for tech jobs in the UK were the highest it had been for ten years, with nearly a million open positions and more of these in London than in any other British city. However it should be noted, that there continues to be apprehension in the industry regarding recent job cuts.
Despite these cuts — and a sign of enduring demand — as of July 2023 salaries for Londoners with coding skills remained quite high compared to the London median salary of £42,000:
With so much money on offer — and a competitive yet growing job market — many Londoners are are looking to use a coding bootcamp to learn the technical skills that can help them make a career change.
London at a Glance
Number of Coding Bootcamps: 35+
Average Software Developer Salary: £57,000
Popular Tech Companies: Deliveroo, TATA Consulting Services, Amazon
What to Know Before Attending a Coding Bootcamp in London
Coding bootcamps not only provide hands-on training in programming and other computer science skills necessary to launch a tech career, they also provide personalized career services to help bootcamp graduates land their first coding job. While some London bootcamps offer an online course of study through Zoom or a proprietary learning management system (LMS), others welcome students to their London campus to begin their coding journey in person.
Duration for bootcamps can vary, but students taking a software development or software engineering immersive course can expect to spend at least 12 weeks completing it. The exact curriculum you follow over that period of time — and the programming language or languages you learn — depends on whether you wish to focus on software engineering and development, UX design, data science, or another career track where coding skills are table stakes.
It’s also important to remember that some coding schools require applicants to demonstrate a certain level of coding proficiency or experience before beginning the course. Oftentimes, this can be fulfilled through successfully completing a technical assessment or a pre-course curriculum.
How to Pay for a Coding Bootcamp in London
Most bootcamps cost around £8,000-£10,000, which, while not inexpensive, is a fairly reasonable investment if it can successfully put you on a path to a £40,000-£50,000 a year job.
Importantly, you won’t necessarily need to pay the entire tuition upfront. Bootcamps offer a host of financing options, including:
Income Share Agreements: In an income share agreement, or ISA, students are able to defer bootcamp tuition until they land their first coding job. At this point, they begin paying off their tuition bill through an agreed percentage of their salaries, with the total tuition cost usually ringing in higher than the up-front figure. When entering into an ISA, always make sure to read the fine print to ensure you won’t be overpaying down the road.
Third-Party Financing: Certain coding bootcamps partner with private lenders such as Knoma, EdAid, and Lendwise to offer students payment plans. As with ISAs, the total amount paid once interest is factored in will exceed the up-front cost.
Scholarships: Scholarships are frequently available for those from non-traditional backgrounds such as racial and gender minorities, as well as for those with demonstrated financial need.
Whether you are paying upfront or taking advantage of financing, before you enroll in a coding bootcamp you should project your future earnings given your aptitude and drive, calculate an estimated payback period given tuition and any added interest, and make sure you are making a good financial decision.
## How to Choose a Coding Bootcamp in London
There are over 35 different London coding bootcamps, so finding the right one for you can be an overwhelming task. When deciding, you want to focus on:
Rigor: A bootcamp should be just that: a bootcamp. Given the expense and the purpose (to land an entry-level coding position in a competitive job market), you want to ensure that your instructors will hold you to task and help you reach your potential. This doesn’t mean that the bootcamp’s curriculum should be jam-packed with superfluous lessons or unnecessarily hard, just that your time is used efficiently and in a way that will help you develop into a successful software engineer or software developer.
Practical Training: While you might learn much _about _coding in a book, books alone likely won’t get you coding. A good bootcamp will provide ample independent and collaborative projects to help you put what you learn into practical application and, crucially, begin populating a portfolio to show recruiters and hiring managers.
Student Outcome: You can’t be sure how you will succeed in (and after) a bootcamp, but student outcome data can be a good indication. When researching bootcamps, give more weight to those with high numbers of alumni, verifiable job placement rates, high average alumni salaries, and whose alumni are hired by prominent organizations.
Career Services: When trying to land a coding job, the technical training is only half the battle. A great bootcamp will set you up for success by providing resume review, interview practice, networking advice, one-on-one mentorship, and other career services.
Flexibility: While some will prefer to learn in person on a London campus, others need the flexibility to learn from home that remote options provide. Others still need to continue working while studying, so they will opt for part-time options. Whatever your flexibility needs, rest assured that there is a bootcamp for you, you just need to find it.
Value: Bootcamps are expensive, and you must ensure you’re getting your money’s worth. When considering the rigor, practical training, student outcomes, and flexibility of each program, make sure that the price makes sense for your financial reality and when put into context alongside competing programs.
This can seem like a lot to keep track of, let alone balance, but have no fear: these same criteria inform our recommendations, so the bootcamps you find below can be a great place to get started in your research.
1. le wagon: Web Development course
le wagon’s London Web Development course provides aspiring developers crucial training in relevant software and databases, front-end development with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and efficient workflow with Figma, Git, and GitHub. Additionally, dedicated project weeks and a career week where students meet tech professionals and complete mock interviews ensure that they’ll be job-ready once they graduate.
Summary of Verified Student Reviews:
Based on the analysis of student reviews submitted for Le Wagon in 2023, it is evident that the overall student experience attending Le Wagon is highly positive. Students and graduates express satisfaction with various aspects of their journey at Le Wagon, emphasizing the quality of instruction, immersive learning environment, supportive atmosphere, practical approach to learning, and networking opportunities.
Pros: One of the key strengths highlighted in verified reviews is the quality of instruction provided by Le Wagon. They appreciate the knowledgeable and attentive instructors who go above and beyond to ensure their success. Teachers are described as friendly, interactive, and helpful, creating a positive student learning experience. Additionally, the immersive nature of the Le Wagon bootcamp programs is highly valued, with students acknowledging the fast-paced learning style that allows them to acquire a significant amount of knowledge quickly. Student reviewers expressed astonishment at their own progress and mentioned putting their newly acquired skills into practice.
The supportive environment at Le Wagon is another aspect that students appreciate. They mention feeling welcomed and valued by the staff and their peers. The family-like atmosphere fosters a sense of belonging and positivity, creating an environment conducive to learning and personal growth. Students commend the empathy and support demonstrated by the staff, who go the extra mile to address personal challenges and ensure the welfare of their students.
The practical approach to learning at Le Wagon is highly valued by students. They mention engaging in real-world projects and hands-on exercises, allowing them to apply their knowledge and develop a strong foundation in their chosen field. This emphasis on practical learning prepares students to succeed in real-world scenarios and equips them with valuable skills.
Finally, students appreciate the networking opportunities provided by Le Wagon. Verified reviewers highlight the chance to connect with like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds, creating a supportive network that inspires and motivates them. The opportunity to socialize and attend various events further enriches their experience at Le Wagon.
Summary: While some students mention that certain instructors could improve their teaching skills, overall, the sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. Attending Le Wagon is considered a transformative and immersive experience, equipping students with valuable skills and knowledge in software development. The combination of quality instruction, a supportive and inclusive environment, practical learning, and networking opportunities make Le Wagon a highly recommended choice for those looking to excel in the tech industry.
Location: London
Learning Format: In-person or online
Program Length: 2 months (full-time) or 6 months (part-time)
Graduation Rate: NA
Job Placement Rate: 93%
Number of Alumni: 21,000
Average Starting Salary: NA
Hiring Companies: BCG, Amazon, Shopify, Meta
Program Cost: £7,400
Financing Offers: Installment plan, loans, scholarships, ISAs
Job Guarantee: No
Mailing Address: Shoreditch Stables, North, 138 Kingsland Rd, London E2 8DY
Contact Information: Contact a representative
2. BrainStation: Software Engineering Bootcamp
BrainStation’s Software Engineering Bootcamp provides hands-on training through real-life business cases centered around top companies like Google and Mastercard. Through expert lectures given by professionals from Microsoft, Google, Amazon, and other companies, students learn core software engineering software, tools, and methods. A demo day (see video) gives students a chance to show off their work and begin to build their professional network.
Summary of Verified Student Reviews:
Based on the analysis of recently submitted verified student reviews for BrainStation, the overall student experience attending the school is highly positive. BrainStation students express satisfaction with several aspects of their journey at BrainStation, highlighting the well-thought-out curriculum, practical hands-on learning, collaborative and inclusive learning environment, networking opportunities, and career support.
Pros: One of the key strengths mentioned by students is the quality of the curriculum and instruction provided by BrainStation. The programs are described as transformative and cover a wide range of topics essential for successful careers in software engineering, product management, data science, UX design, and more. Students appreciate the emphasis on practical application through project-based learning, enabling them to apply their newly acquired skills to real-world scenarios. The BrainStation instructors and teaching assistants are commended for their support, guidance, and industry experience, enhancing the learning experience.
The collaborative and inclusive learning environment at BrainStation is highly valued by students. BrainStation reviewers mention the exchange of ideas, open discussions, and the diversity of backgrounds among classmates, which enriches the learning process. Networking events and guest speaker sessions are valuable opportunities to connect with industry professionals and gain insights into the field.
Students also appreciate the career support provided by BrainStation. The availability of personalized coaching, resume, and portfolio reviews, and interview preparation workshops is seen as exceptional, providing students with the necessary tools to navigate their career paths successfully.
Cons: While the sentiment is predominantly positive, a few students mention areas for improvement. Some suggest a deeper focus on advanced concepts or more in-depth coverage of certain topics. However, these suggestions do not overshadow the overall positive experience and the value students feel they have gained from attending BrainStation.
Summary: In conclusion, attending BrainStation is viewed as an unforgettable and transformative journey, equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed for career transitions. The practical and collaborative learning environment, strong curriculum, networking opportunities, and career support make BrainStation a highly recommended choice for professionals seeking to enhance their skills and succeed in the tech industry.
Location: London
Learning Format: In-person (full-time) or online (part-time)
Program Length: 2-3 months (full-time) or ~8 months (part-time)
Graduation Rate: NA
Job Placement Rate: 90%
Number of Alumni: 15000+
Average Starting Salary: NA
Hiring Companies: Microsoft, Wix.com, Cyferd, Q4
Program Cost: £10,500
Financing Offers: Monthly payments, scholarships
Job Guarantee: No
Mailing Address: 55-57 Rivington Street, London, EC2A 3QA, UK
Contact Information: Contact a representative
3. Founders and Coders: Software Developer Course
Founders and Coders is a UK-based non-profit that offers a free educational path to becoming a software developer: from self-paced learning to a software foundation cohort to software developer apprenticeships where you can actually get paid to learn. Over the course of this path, students learn job-crucial skills related to markup, HTTP, and testing.
Location: London
Learning Format: In-person and online
Program Length: Self-paced, 12 weeks part-time (Software Foundation), 21 months or less (Software Developer apprenticeship)
Graduation Rate: NA
Job Placement Rate: NA
Number of Alumni: NA
Average Starting Salary: NA
Hiring Companies: NA
Program Cost: Free
Financing Offers: NA
Job Guarantee: No
Mailing Address: Space4, 2nd Floor 113-115 Fonthill Road, Finsbury Park, London N4 3HH
Contact Information: hello@foundersandcoders.com
4. Makers Academy
Makers Academy offers two ways to become a software developer: a bootcamp and an apprenticeship focused on DevOps and testing. Students can also utilize thorough career services, emotional intelligence sessions, and world-class mentors.
Summary of Verified Student Reviews:
Based on the analysis of the student reviews submitted in 2023 for Makers Academy, the overall student experience attending the school is predominantly positive. Makers Academy students express satisfaction with various aspects of their journey at Makers Academy, highlighting the effectiveness of the curriculum, the supportive learning environment, the hands-on approach, and the career support provided. However, there are also a few areas for improvement mentioned by Makers Academy students, such as the communication and management of expectations, as well as the choice of programming languages.
Pros: One of the key strengths mentioned by Makers Academy students is the effectiveness of the curriculum. Students appreciate the comprehensive coverage of fundamental programming concepts and the opportunity to learn multiple languages, which students and graduates feel prepared them well for their desired careers in software development. The emphasis on clean code, object-oriented principles, and test-driven development is highly valued, as it aligns with industry best practices.
The supportive learning environment at Makers Academy is also highlighted as a positive aspect. Students mention the availability of tech coaches who are knowledgeable and friendly, provide guidance, and answer questions when needed. The emphasis on collaboration, team building, and community events fosters a supportive and inclusive atmosphere, allowing Makers Academy students to connect with others and learn from each other.
Career support provided by Makers Academy is another aspect praised by students. Reviewers highlighted appreciating the workshops, coaching sessions, and individualized assistance provided to help with CV and cover letter writing, interview preparation, and job hunting. The Makers Academy success coaches are mentioned for their exceptional support and feedback. However, some students mention challenges in finding jobs due to the current job market conditions.
Cons: While the sentiment is predominantly positive, a few students mention areas for improvement. Reviewers highlight the need for better communication and management of expectations, as well as occasional disorganization that affected the learning experience. Additionally, some Makers Academy students express a desire for a different choice of programming language, suggesting that the curriculum could be updated to align with industry trends and demand.
Summary: In conclusion, attending Makers Academy is viewed as a positive and rewarding experience. It equips students with the knowledge, skills, and support needed for a successful career transition into software development. The effectiveness of the curriculum, the supportive learning environment, and the valuable career support make Makers Academy a recommended choice for professionals looking to enhance their skills in the field. However, improvements in communication, organization, and curriculum updates could further enhance the overall student experience.
Location: London
Learning Format: In-person or online
Program Length: 16 weeks, full-time
Graduation Rate: NA
Job Placement Rate: NA
Number of Alumni: 2000+
Average Starting Salary: £30,000-£45,000
Hiring Companies: Ford, Expedia, Deloitte, Deliveroo
Program Cost: £8,500
Financing Offers: Personal loans
Job Guarantee: No
Mailing Address: Zetland House, 5-25 Scrutton Street, Unit 1FG – Unit 2FG London EC2A 4HJ
Contact Information: contact@makers.tech +44 (0)203 817 8870
5. The Jump: Software Engineering
The Jump’s Software Engineering course aims to provide detailed and accessible training in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to help career changers jump into their next big thing. To support this career change, the Jump provides optional career-change support in job searching, networking, applying, portfolio development, and interviewing.
Summary of Verified Student Reviews:
After analyzing reviews submitted in 2022 and 2023 for The Jump, we’ve summarized that the overall student experience attending The Jump is highly positive. Students and graduates express satisfaction with various aspects of their journey at The Jump, spotlighting the comprehensive curriculum, the supportive and personable approach of The Jump staff, the sense of community, and the post-graduation support provided. Students also appreciate the passion, knowledge, and dedication of The Jump’s instructors, as well as the individualized attention and guidance they receive throughout the programs.
Pros: One of the key strengths mentioned by students is The Jump’s comprehensive curriculum. Students highlight the focus on in-demand technologies and frameworks, such as JavaScript and React, which they perceive as valuable for finding job opportunities. The curriculum is challenging yet rewarding, providing students with a solid foundation in software engineering principles.
The supportive and personable approach of The Jump staff is highly praised by students. They appreciate the sense of community and the individual attention given to each student. The Jump founders and instructors are described as passionate, caring, and dedicated, creating a positive and engaging learning environment. Students value the ongoing support they receive even after completing the course, including help with CVs, portfolios, and interview preparation.
The post-graduation support provided by The Jump is another aspect highlighted by students. They mention the team's availability to assist with job applications and provide guidance throughout the job-hunting process. The personalized advice and insights into the industry's expectations are appreciated, and students attribute their successful job placements to the support received from The Jump.
Cons: While the sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, a few students mention areas for improvement for The Jump. Some students suggest incorporating more visual learning materials, such as diagrams, into the course content. However, these suggestions do not diminish their overall positive experiences.
Summary: In conclusion, attending The Jump is a highly beneficial and rewarding experience, providing students with the skills, support, and guidance needed to transition into the software development industry successfully. The comprehensive curriculum, the supportive and personable approach of the team, and the post-course support make The Jump a recommended choice for professionals looking to enter the coding industry. The positive feedback and successful job placements of students reflect the effectiveness of The Jump's program and their commitment to student success.
Location: London
Learning Format: In-person or online
Program Length: 12 weeks (full-time), 30 weeks (part-time)
Graduation Rate: NA
Job Placement Rate: NA
Number of Alumni: NA
Average Starting Salary: NA
Hiring Companies: EAGames, Lego, Qubit, Feed, The Guardian
Program Cost: £7,500
Financing Offers: Personal loans
Job Guarantee: No
Mailing Address: NA
Contact Information: info@thejump.tech +44 (0)207 310 8642
6. Codeworks: Software Engineering Immersive
Codeworks - Reasons Short from Codeworks on Vimeo.
Codeworks’ Software Engineering Immersive helps students gain a deep understanding of full-stack development by maintaining high selection standards, emphasizing practical application, and putting students through a rigorous curriculum. Students with no prior coding experience are able to take up to 160 hours of pre-course training before beginning the 12-week bootcamp.
Summary of Verified Student Reviews:
After analyzing student reviews from 2023 for Codeworks, the overall student experience attending the school’s programs and courses is predominantly positive. Students express satisfaction with various aspects of their time at Codeworks, highlighting the well-thought-out curriculum, the dedication and support of the instructors, and the immersive learning environment. However, some students mention the intense and demanding nature of the program as a potential drawback.
Pros: One of the key strengths mentioned by students is the comprehensive and well-designed curriculum offered at Codeworks. Students appreciate the breadth of topics covered, which provides them with a solid understanding of web development and programming. The curriculum is described as organized and tailored to meet the needs of students with varying levels of expertise.
The instructors at Codeworks are highly praised for their dedication, attentiveness, and willingness to provide support. Students value the guidance and assistance offered by the instructors, which helps them navigate through the challenges of the program. The instructors are described as knowledgeable and effective in explaining complex concepts, making the learning process approachable and enjoyable.
The immersive learning environment at Codeworks is frequently referenced as a positive aspect of the experience. Students appreciate the opportunity to work with and learn from intelligent and motivated peers. The collaborative atmosphere fosters intellectual stimulation and growth, creating a supportive community of learners.
Cons: While the sentiment is mostly positive, the intensity and demanding nature of the program are mentioned as potential cons. Students acknowledge that the program requires a significant time commitment and can sometimes be overwhelming. The rigorous schedule and workload may lead to burnout and limit other aspects of students' lives during the bootcamp.
Summary: In conclusion, attending Codeworks offers students a transformative learning experience with a comprehensive curriculum, dedicated instructors, and an immersive learning environment. The program prepares students for real-world development projects and provides job assistance to support their transition into the tech industry. However, the intensity and demanding nature of the program should be considered by prospective students who need to manage their time and commitments carefully. Overall, Codeworks is recommended for individuals seeking a high-quality and intensive coding bootcamp experience.
Location: London
Learning Format: In-person or online
Program Length: 12 weeks (full-time)
Graduation Rate: ~90%
Job Placement Rate: 98%
Number of Alumni: NA
Average Starting Salary: £47,363
Hiring Companies: NA
Program Cost: £11,800
Financing Offers: Personal loans, deferred payment plan
Job Guarantee: No
Mailing Address: 52 Horseferry Road, London, SW1P 2AF
Contact Information: hello@codeworks.me
7. _nology
_nology is less a bootcamp and more a talent pipeline. Accepted students spend 12 weeks training with _nology instructors, then are hired and deployed to client organizations as Junior Software Developers or Junior Cloud Engineers.
Summary of Verified Student Reviews:
The reviews from 2022 and 2023 for _nology signal a predominantly positive overall student experience. Students express satisfaction with various aspects of their time at _nology, highlighting the intensity and rewards of the program, the supportive and knowledgeable coaches, and the practical project-based learning approach. Some students mention the fast-paced nature of the course as a potential challenge.
Pros: One of the key strengths mentioned by _nology students is the intense and rewarding nature of the program. Students appreciate the immersive 12-week course that pushes them to learn and grow. Student reviewers find the projects particularly valuable, as they provide a tangible measure of progress and showcase the skills they have acquired. Students also mention that the course builds confidence and prepares them well for entering the tech industry.
The coaches at _nology are highly praised for their support, patience, and knowledge. Students appreciate the guidance and assistance provided by the coaches, especially as many students are new to programming. _nology coaches create a supportive learning environment and are available to help students through challenges and difficulties.
The project-based learning approach is highlighted as a positive aspect of the experience. _nology students enjoy working on various projects, including personal projects and client project. Collaborative work and paired programming give students a taste of a professional coding environment and help them develop skills in teamwork and collaboration.
Cons: While the sentiment is mostly positive, the fast-paced and intense nature of the _nology program is mentioned as a potential challenge. Students acknowledge that the course covers a wide range of content within a short period, which requires dedication and hard work. However, students who are willing to put in the effort and are serious about becoming software developers find the course valuable.
Summary: In conclusion, attending _nology offers students an intense and rewarding learning experience with a focus on practical skills and project-based learning. The supportive environment, knowledgeable coaches, and career assistance contribute to a positive student experience. While the course is fast-paced and demanding, it provides students with the necessary skills and confidence to pursue junior developer roles. Prospective students should be prepared for the intensity of the program and conduct thorough research to ensure it aligns with their goals and expectations. Overall, _nology is recommended for individuals seeking a comprehensive and practical bootcamp experience to transition into the tech industry.
Location: London
Learning Format: Online
Program Length: 12 weeks (full-time)
Graduation Rate: NA
Job Placement Rate: ~100%
Number of Alumni: 200+
Average Starting Salary: £26,000
Hiring Companies: Deutsche Bank, Admiral, Accenture
Program Cost: Free, provided you work for _nology for 1.5 years
Financing Offers: NA
Job Guarantee: Yes
Mailing Address: NA
Contact Information: hello@nology.io +44 (0)117 302 7770
The Upshot: Finding the Right London Coding Bootcamp for You
In this guide, we’ve explained the job landscape in London for software developers and engineers, gone over what you should look for in a London coding bootcamp, and provided some recommendations for our favorite programs. But even with this head-start, we understand how confusing it can be to research bootcamps. If you want some help, why don’t you get matched to find the right bootcamp for you?