The government has launched a pilot AI bootcamp in the North West aimed at helping young people develop AI skills before moving into apprenticeships and employment.

The “first-of-its-kind” initiative forms part of the government's TechFirst AI Apprenticeship Pathway and will provide up to 70 young people aged 16 to 21 with three weeks of AI training, alongside practical workplace skills, before connecting them with employers offering apprenticeships.

The training will cover practical AI applications, including building AI tools, understanding how businesses use AI, generating documentation with AI and using the technology responsibly alongside human oversight. Participants will also receive training in professional communication, office software, teamwork, time management, and problem-solving.

Delivered by technology skills provider IN4 Group, the government said the programme is targeting young people who are out of work or at risk of unemployment after leaving school.

Participants have been recruited from communities including Wigan, Blackburn, and Blackpool.
The government added that companies including JD Sports, Heinz, and local SMEs will offer apprenticeship opportunities to successful participants.

AI Minister Kaniskha Narayan said the initiative would help prepare young people for an AI-driven economy.

“AI is already transforming the world of work, from time-saving tools that cut out admin through to high-end tech that's boosting vital fields like medical research,” he said. “This new scheme is about giving them the skills they need to thrive in the AI workplace, and build careers in some of our most exciting industries.”

The pilot will be used to shape a national AI skills and early careers programme, due to launch across England next summer.

It builds on the government's £200 million TechFirst programme, announced in 2025, which the government said has already reached more than 100,000 young people, supported 500 PhD students researching critical technologies, and is set to expand into schools from September.

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