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The ICAEW has become a strategic partner for the government’s AI Skills Boost initiative.
The national programme aims to upskill 10 million UK workers in artificial intelligence related skills by 2030. It forms part of a wider government campaign to make Britain the fastest country to adopt the technology within the G7.
The initial stage of the project will take place across 2026, and will focus on foundational training and improving digital capabilities within small and medium-sized enterprises and the public sector.
Entry-level and non-technical courses will be offered for free through the AI Skills Hub. These will focus on practical ways to deliver productivity alongside the safe and responsible use of technology.
Training covers six areas outlined in the AI Foundations for Work benchmark from Skills England. These include prompt writing, workflow automation, data analysis, and ethical usage.
It comes as the ICAEW has launched its own generative artificial intelligence accelerator programme to address these specific disciplines within the financial profession.
It joins other industry partners delivering the programme, including Amazon, Barclays, IBM, Intuit, Microsoft, Sage, Cisco, and the Confederation of British Industry.
Chief policy and communications officer at the institute, Iain Wright, said: “At a time when businesses are adopting AI and technology at pace, it is crucial that we equip the future workforce with the skills and confidence to excel in an AI world.
“Last year we re-launched our ACA qualification to reflect the constantly changing requirement for new and specialist skillsets in the workplace, while our new GenAI Accelerator programme helps finance professionals and accountants develop their AI skills effectively and ethically. With headlines around AI replacing jobs likely to persist, it is essential we provide the workers of tomorrow with the necessary means to tackle the complex challenges technological revolution brings.”
Alan Vallance, CEO of the ICAEW, added: “We are delighted to join this coalition at a pivotal moment, as organisations shift from AI experimentation to large-scale adoption. Unlocking the full value of AI will depend not just on technology, but on investment, skills, and strong governance rooted in professional standards.
“We are focused on enabling our members to lead the practical adoption of AI so they can apply it with confidence and integrity. By working collaboratively across sectors, we can accelerate learning and help position the UK at the forefront of trusted AI innovation.”
