Free AI training for all adults – what does it mean for you?

The UK government has announced that every adult is eligible for free AI training through its AI Foundation programme on the AI Skills Boost website. With a drive to “make Britain the fastest adopting AI country in the G7”, this announcement offers opportunities for accountants - and the wider workforce – to upskill at no cost.

This is a clear signal of how seriously the government is taking AI and the opportunities it can offer both workers and businesses. The courses being offered will allow everyone to gain practical AI skills for work and become confident in using it. 

This announcement comes after recent research found that only 21% of UK workers felt confident in using AI, and as of mid-2025 only one in six UK businesses were using AI. Small and medium sized businesses are currently much less likely to be using AI than larger organisations, leading to a widening gap in skills. 

Through this new training offer, the government hopes to increase AI adoption, support higher-skilled jobs and free up workers from routine tasks. 

What’s on offer?

The courses are online and flexible. Some can take as little as 20 minutes to complete and cover practical topics such as:

• Using AI to support admin tasks
• Drafting text and using AI agents
• Understanding the risks and ethical implications of using AI 

The courses have been developed with input from major tech companies like Google, IBM, Microsoft and Accenture, and are backed by Skills England and the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology. 

Accountants and AI usage

Recent reports show accountants are keen to embrace AI. Many are already using some elements within their accountancy practice or finance department. Many say they’re keen to introduce more AI into their daily work tasks but report a lack of training and experience in using AI is a current barrier to this. 

There’s a strong interest in using AI to:

• Improve efficiencies in the workplace 
• Save time and reduce costs 
• Increase productivity 
• Support automation and compliance

Reducing routine tasks could allow firms and finance teams more time to focus on growth, building relationships with clients and offering more advisory services to clients. This new government initiative could help with that by encouraging accountants at all levels to take training in AI and explore what AI can offer in practice.

Where can I access AI training?

Check out our AI and Technology Hub for links to the AI Skills Boost offer, as well as additional AI training courses and AI learning resources.