‘How to be work-ready in the age of AI: A replicable model for digitally upskilling jobseekers’ details the findings from a rapid proof-of-concept that tested the impact of essential digital and AI skills on employability.
The project, delivered in partnership by FutureDotNow, Cosmic and Accenture, and funded by the Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund, explored whether equipping jobseekers with essential digital and AI skills could boost confidence, capability and job-readiness, ultimately improving an individual’s chance of getting a job.
Key findings
The results were striking.
- Embedding essential digital and AI skills into employability programmes almost doubles jobseekers’ chances of getting a job. They also secured work quicker.
- Building these skills creates a material mindset shift, moving jobseekers from low capability and confidence to digital independence with the confidence to experiment with new technologies.
- AI sparked curiosity in unexpected ways and created newfound motivation among learners.
- Using this highly replicable model, it is possible to enhance existing provision and unlock transformative outcomes at pace.
South-West partnership
Working directly with Restart Scheme participants in the South-West of England, Cosmic led programme delivery, building a curriculum to equip them with the 25 practical work tasks in the AI-embedded Essential Digital Skills Framework through tutor-led workshops, 1:1 coaching, supported practice and City & Guilds-endorsed digital badges.
This model strengthened existing provision rather than creating a new programme – a critical design choice allowing for scale replication of the model.
The employer perspective
Our partners at Accenture also engaged with more than 25 employers to garner views on expectations of new recruits, critical skills gaps and how the workplace is changing.
Key recommendation
Embed essential digital and AI skills into every employability programme. This report offers powerful insight for policymakers, commissioners and delivery organisations looking to improve employment outcomes, reduce digital exclusion and ensure people are work‑ready for an AI‑enabled labour market.
