Blackpool part of groundbreaking AI bootcamp helping prevent youth unemployment after leaving school

Young people from Blackpool are taking part in a first-of-its-kind AI summer bootcamp designed to help prevent young people falling into unemployment after leaving school.

The Government’s new TechFirst AI Apprenticeship Pathway has brought together government, industry and public sector organisations to provide three weeks of AI and workplace skills training. Young recruits from communities including Blackpool have now started their training, with the IN4 Group-led pilot teaching young people about AI technology.

Participants will also learn how to use AI responsibly alongside human oversight and quality control, while developing workplace skills including professional communication, teamwork, timekeeping, organisation and problem-solving.

‘I made the difficult decision to leave university’

“From an early age, I always wanted to become an architect, but during my first year at university, I discovered a strong passion for AI and technology,” said 21-year-old Blackpool participant Jiya. “This interest grew to the point where I began teaching myself how to code and exploring different ways technology can be used to solve problems and create opportunities.

“I also volunteer with the Fylde Coast Hindu Society, where I use different digital tools and software to support their marketing strategies. This experience has allowed me to develop my technical and creative skills while gaining practical experience in using technology to achieve real-world outcomes.

“After realising that architecture was no longer the right path for me, I made the difficult decision to leave university. Since then, I have been exploring my next steps and looking for an opportunity that will allow me to build on my existing skills and develop a clearer career direction.

“I am particularly excited about this opportunity because it would allow me to deepen my knowledge and understanding of AI and technology, while gaining valuable practical experience. I hope it will help me progress towards paid employment and give me the opportunity to use my skills, creativity and enthusiasm to add real value to the industry.”

Apprenticeships at JD Sports and Heinz

At the end of the programme, businesses and public sector organisations across the region, including JD Sports, Heinz and local SMEs, will have apprenticeships available to help participants move into employment.

The scheme will also test how AI training and career development can best support young people, with its findings intended to inform an England-wide AI skills and early careers programme due to roll out next summer. The pilot builds on the £200m TechFirst skills programme, announced in summer 2025, which has already reached more than 100,000 young people.

Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy said: “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.

“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.”

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."