Ada Tech School, an inclusive and gender‑equal computer science school, is opening a campus in Lyon
Ada Tech School is an inclusive school committed to gender diversity in computer programming careers. It uses an alternative teaching approach to guide a wide range of learners toward a fast‑growing sector that is actively recruiting. With support from ONLYLYON Invest, the school is establishing itself in Lyon.
Today in France, only 10% of students in technology and computer science tracks are women. In response to this reality, Ada Tech School is committed to promoting a creative, more human, and more inclusive approach to technology. After Paris and Nantes, it is opening a new campus in Lyon with the support of ONLYLYON Invest, the economic development agency for the Lyon region.
The first cohort began classes in Villeurbanne in October 2023 with 15 students and will soon move into its permanent facilities in Lyon’s 7th arrondissement.
Ada Tech School, a school committed to inclusion and diversity in computer science
Founded in 2019 by Chloé Hermary, Ada Tech School is named after Ada Lovelace, the world’s first computer programmer. Convinced that technology is essential to shaping the world of tomorrow, the school supports its students—70% of whom are women—in preparing for careers in programming. The only admission requirement is to be 18 years old or over.
Its alternative teaching model emphasizes the development of soft skills, collaboration, empowerment, and confidence in one’s abilities. Coding is taught as a living language, through hands-on practice and group projects. The program also allows each student to progress at their own pace, according to their individual needs.
At the end of a two-year program (nine months at school and twelve months in a work-study format), Ada Tech School awards a professional certification titled “Application Designer-Developer” (Concepteur·rice développeur·rice d’application), Level 6, equivalent to a bachelor’s degree. This qualification is registered in the French National Directory of Professional Certifications (RNCP).
In this way, the school facilitates access to careers in tech and computer science—dynamic fields with strong hiring demand.
A campus established with the support of ONLYLYON Invest, backed by the Lyon Metropolitan Authority
The Lyon Metropolitan Authority actively supports the digital sector across its territory. It is committed to developing and encouraging responsible digital practices, while also working daily to promote professional inclusion and employment across Greater Lyon.
Within this framework, ONLYLYON Invest supported Ada Tech School in setting up its new campus in the metropolitan area. This included helping the school find a location to launch its first cohort, connect with local partners (such as the Metropolitan Employment Integration Office, H7, and numerous associations), and recruit a campus manager.
The establishment of Ada Tech School in Villeurbanne strengthens the Lyon digital ecosystem. Its inclusive approach will train a new generation of developers while promoting diversity, helping to meet the high demand for talent in the sector.
Villeurbanne, an ideal setting for tech careers
The Lyon metropolitan area offers a favorable environment for the digital sector. Labeled French Tech, it is home to many successful companies and represents the second-largest employment hub in France for this industry. According to the school, Lyon was therefore an obvious choice for its expansion.
Ada Tech School is currently based at the Bel Air Camp campus in Villeurbanne, located at 36 rue Antoine Primat. This shared space brings together schools and tech companies, making it easier for graduates to find employment. Easily accessible by tram and metro, Villeurbanne is also home to Pôle Pixel, the region’s leading hub dedicated to creative industries and digital content. An ideal environment to give the school’s students every opportunity to succeed.
“Lyon is a young and growing city that promotes responsible digital practices, perfectly aligned with the values of Ada Tech School.”
— says Chloé Hermary, Founder & CEO of Ada Tech School.