With more than one million young people in the UK currently not in education, employment or training (NEET), the government is exploring whether AI skills could help open new pathways into work.
As organisations increasingly adopt AI, demand is growing for employees who can use these tools effectively and responsibly. To help address this skills gap, the UK government is launching a pilot AI bootcamp programme in North West England.
AI skills as a route into employment
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), more than one million people aged 16 to 24 were NEET between January and March 2026. The figures underline the challenge facing policymakers and employers as they seek new routes into work.
Through its TechFirst programme, the government is investing in AI and digital skills training to prepare young people for a technology-driven job market. The first pilot will welcome 70 participants aged 16 to 21 for an intensive three-week bootcamp.
The initiative reflects a growing belief that AI literacy is becoming an essential employability skill. For many employers, the ability to work effectively with AI tools is becoming a valuable workplace competency.
How the programme works
The pilot will run across five locations in Lancashire and Greater Manchester. Participants will learn how AI tools are developed, how organisations use them to improve productivity, and how to apply AI responsibly and securely.
Training will include hands-on experience with AI platforms from Microsoft, OpenAI and Anthropic, alongside critical thinking, problem-solving and workplace skills.
Participants will also have the opportunity to move into fully paid AI apprenticeships with organisations including JD Sports, BAE Systems, PA Consulting, Agilisys and local councils. A wider rollout across England could follow if the pilot proves successful.
Preparing for an AI-powered future
AI is reshaping roles across technology, finance, legal services, administration, marketing and customer support. While it is automating some routine tasks, it is also enabling employees to focus on higher-value work that requires creativity, judgement and collaboration.
By combining AI training with paid apprenticeships, the programmme aims to equip young people with practical experience, recognised skills and direct pathways into employment. Increasingly, AI literacy is being viewed not just as a technology skill, but as a foundation for future career success in an AI-powered economy.
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