How do I get into IT?

[BlastedPimples]

I'm older. 52.

I have never had proper training.

I want a future after a shitty marriage and divorce.

I don't know much about IT. So I start from scratch. Finding out more. What direction I should go in.

GCSE? Then A. Level then degree? It's going to take a long time.

Are there routes anyone could recommend, please?

Following, here's a bump!

"IT" is hugely generic. Do you actually know anything about it? Think you have any aptitude for it? Any interest in a specific area? You're either going to have to focus in, or do a computer science degree. Are you open to doing an apprenticeship, aka not being paid much for a while? Do you have GCSEs and A-levels already?

Learn how to programme.

In what language? To what purpose? Java? C++? Python? Ruby on Rails? "Programming" is still way too vague.

As per PP, the term IT is massive so you need to narrow it down.

What is your previous experience, what do you like to do, what kind of work interests you? To give some examples:

• Are you a mathematical thinker, do you like to work through statistics, have a logical thought pattern that can see how things link together to get to the end point? Could lead to Data science/analyst
• Do you like the more physical aspects, tinkering with machines, putting things together - maybe desktop engineer
• do you like creating processes, reviewing policies, auditing compliance, could lead to Information Security analyst
• Are you good at identifying risks, coming up with solutions - vulnerability management/threat operations/business continuity planning
• are you organised, able to keep people on track, prioritise - IT project management/scrum master/Business Analyst

There are some job profiles here that might help you focus on a direction, or decide that IT actually doesn't appeal www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/browse-sector/information-technology