Google has launched its much-anticipated AI Campus in London, marking a significant step towards supporting the development of digital and AI skills in the UK. The initiative, which aims to inspire and educate the next generation of AI professionals, was officially unveiled with the participation of UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who expressed his support for the project.
Located in Somers Town, Camden, the AI Campus has been created in collaboration with Camden Council and Camden Learning. It will serve as a hub for a two-year educational pilot designed to engage local sixth-form students in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence (AI). Through the program, students will access state-of-the-art resources on AI and machine learning, along with mentoring and expert guidance from Google, Google DeepMind, and other industry leaders.
The pilot program emphasizes the real-world application of AI, offering students opportunities to work on projects that span various sectors such as healthcare, social sciences, and the arts. This approach enables participants to explore the diverse challenges that AI can address, both locally and globally. The first cohort of 32 students, reflecting the diversity of Camden’s student body, has already begun their journey. Special preference was given to applicants from underrepresented groups, including those who qualify for Free School Meals.
Looking ahead, the AI Campus will expand its reach. Starting in mid-2025, the campus will offer out-of-school learning opportunities and AI-focused masterclasses to a broader group of Camden students, enhancing their access to cutting-edge technology and foundational AI skills. This initiative will help ensure that a wider array of students can tap into the growing importance of AI education.
In addition to the Camden-focused pilot, Google invests £865,000 through its philanthropic arm, Google.org, to fund AI literacy programs across the UK. This new grant will help the Raspberry Pi Foundation scale its successful “Experience AI” program, developed in collaboration with Google DeepMind. The funding will enable the Raspberry Pi Foundation to work with ParentZone to provide teacher training and support, aiming to reach an additional 250,000 students across the UK by the end of 2026.
This initiative reflects Google’s long-term commitment to improving digital literacy and AI skills across the UK. To date, the company has trained over one million people and businesses in digital and AI skills, working with various partners, including governments, trade unions, NGOs, and local communities. The launch of the AI Campus and the funding of AI literacy programs are part of Google’s broader mission to ensure that AI’s benefits are accessible to everyone, regardless of their background.
Google envisions that by providing high-quality AI education, the UK will be positioned to lead in the global AI landscape, fostering scientific breakthroughs that could transform industries and save lives. As AI continues to shape the future, Google is eager to play its part in preparing the next generation to harness its potential.
