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Barnsley launches AI training schemes to support jobseekers

The AI Career Launchpad will provide people of all ages with six months of training linked to a Level 4 apprenticeship alongside paid work placements.

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Barnsley Town Hall on a fine spring day, with blue sky and gardens in bloom.
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Two new artificial intelligence (AI) training schemes are set to launch in Barnsley to help residents find work, develop digital skills and prepare for careers where AI is increasingly used.

The AI Career Launchpad, a partnership with Barnsley College worth more than £400,000, will provide people of all ages with six months of training linked to a Level 4 apprenticeship alongside paid work placements.

Training will prepare participants for roles involving AI tools, data and digital systems, customer services and the use of technology in day-to-day business operations.

Employers participating in the programme will gain access to people training in AI, with government-funded placements intended to help businesses bring new digital skills into their workforces.

Once the programme has been completed, its curriculum will be made freely available to colleges and training providers elsewhere in the country.

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A separate ‘Getting Job Ready with AI’ pilot will launch in September, providing jobseekers with practical support to use AI and other digital tools during the recruitment process.

Participants could receive support with finding suitable vacancies, tailoring CVs and cover letters, preparing for interviews and understanding how employers are using digital technology in the workplace.

Jobseekers will be referred to the programme through Jobcentre Plus.

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The initiatives follow Barnsley becoming the UK’s first Tech Town six months ago and form part of wider government efforts to improve employment and digital skills.

Minister for Employment Andrew Western said: “Getting more people into good jobs is at the heart of this government’s plan to spread opportunity to every postcode.

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“In Barnsley, we’re testing how AI can support that ambition, helping jobseekers build the confidence and skills they need to compete for the jobs of today and tomorrow.

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“This sits alongside the wider changes we’re making through jobcentres up and down the country, as well as investing £3.5 billion in tailored employment support to help people with health conditions and disabilities move into work.

“We’re also supporting young people into work through our £2.5 billion youth employment support package.”

AI Minister Kanishka Narayan said: “AI is going to transform the world of work and our job is to make sure working people benefit from that change.

“That starts with helping people understand how AI can be useful day to day – whether that means finding a job, learning new skills or building a career in a growing industry.

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“Barnsley is showing what this can look like in practice. As our first Tech Town, it is helping us find ways that can create opportunities for local people and support communities across the country.”

Matt O’Neill, Barnsley Council’s executive director for place, said: “Barnsley is proud to be the UK’s first Tech Town, and these new schemes are another important step in making sure local people can benefit from the opportunities that AI and digital technology can bring.

“Our focus is on practical support that makes a real difference to residents’ lives – whether that’s helping someone build confidence to apply for work, supporting people to develop new skills, or giving local businesses access to the talent and ideas they need to grow and thrive as we’ve outlined in our Inclusive Economic Growth Strategy.

“Tech Town is about using technology in ways that are inclusive, trusted and rooted in everyday life.

“By working with the government, Barnsley College, Jobcentre Plus and our local partners, we want to make sure residents, employers and communities across the borough are ready for the jobs and services of the future.

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“The learning from Barnsley will also help shape how other places across the country approach AI skills and adoption, showing how towns like ours can be a trailblazer and lead the way in creating opportunity and supporting inclusive economic growth.”

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