Up to 70 out-of-work youngsters aged 16 to 21 across the North West are starting the UK's first-ever AI bootcamp, a three-week summer scheme launched under the Government's TechFirst AI Apprenticeship Pathway. The initiative aims to help young people gain skills to prevent AI from taking their jobs.
Government and industry backing
The bootcamp is backed by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, with ministers saying it will “tackle the unemployment crisis head on.” Recruits from Wigan, Blackburn, and Blackpool have been selected to learn how to build AI tools, control software, and ensure human oversight of algorithms.
“Young people in every postcode deserve the opportunity to a great start to their adult life, and we are tackling the youth unemployment crisis head on,” said Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy, in a statement released on August 14. She added: “This first of its kind AI bootcamp will support young people at a crucial juncture in their lives, connecting them with great training and career opportunities at the heart of their local communities.”
Training and opportunities
The bootcamps, run by tech firm IN4 Group, will also train recruits in professional skills such as working under pressure, problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and timekeeping. Brands including JD Sports, Heinz, and local firms are set to offer apprenticeships to participants upon completion.
AI Minister Kaniskha Narayan said: “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. This is a huge opportunity that will directly benefit young people across the country. 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.”
Reactions and future plans
IN4 Group's Mo Isap OBE warned that millions of teenagers are leaving school unprepared for AI's impact. “If we’re serious about tackling youth unemployment, we have to rethink how young people move from education into work by creating pathways that connect talent with paid careers,” he said.
Recruit Ella, 16, from Wigan, said: “It’s like a standard expectation that every student goes to college, even if it doesn’t suit their way of learning.” Ethan, 15, added: “Technology is constantly evolving - it’s the future and I want to keep developing my skills... I feel very lucky to be one of the first in the country to ever do this.”
Whitehall officials say the North West trial is just the beginning, with plans to roll out the scheme across the nation next summer.
