Software For All
AI Bootcamp
Turning AI and software skills into real jobs.
What is it?
Closing the gap between AI skills and AI jobs
Demand for AI-enabled software skills is growing rapidly across Northern Ireland. Yet employers can struggle to find and shape entry-level talent with the right skills, while individuals can find it difficult to turn their training, qualifications and potential into meaningful employment.
The AI Bootcamp is designed to bridge that gap.
Placement-year students
Recent graduates
For students on a software-related degree who missed out on a placement year, and recent graduates who aren't currently employed in a software role.
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AI Bootcamp
Build practical AI skills.
Take part in an intensive, in-person two-week bootcamp (4–15 January 2027) built around real workplace challenges. Develop skills across engineering, AI, product, commercial awareness and marketing, before applying for paid placements with participating employers.
Connect with local employers and apply for paid software placements (min. 16 weeks) after the bootcamp. You'll leave with practical experience, stronger workplace skills and evidence that goes beyond your CV.
The Bootcamp
More than theory, built around real work.
4-15 January 2027, in person, Belfast.
What the bootcamp will cover:
• Engineering: how software gets built, end to end
• AI: building faster, and knowing when to trust it
• Product: working out what's worth building
• Sales & commercial: pricing, outcomes, client needs
• Marketing & distribution: getting your work seen
Pathway
From the AI Bootcamp to work
Step 1
Are you eligible?
Check the eligibility criteria before applying to the bootcamp
An employer-led programme creating real, AI-enabled entry-level jobs across Northern Ireland, connecting SMEs who need entry-level talent with candidates ready to work in AI-native software roles.
Individuals attend an in-person 2-week bootcamp 4-15 January 2027. These individuals have the opportunity to apply to full-time software placements (min 16 weeks). Employers will shortlist, interview and appoint successful candidates.
Who is the AI Bootcamp for?
To be eligible to be considered for the bootcamp, Indviduals must:
Must be currently enrolled in a software-related bachelor’s or master’s degree programme at a Northern Ireland university or college, or have graduated from one in 2024 or later.
Not currently in full-time employment in a software role.
Be available to attend the in-person bootcamp during 4-15 January 2027.
Have an existing right to work in the UK.
Be available to take up a relevant employment placement lasting at least 16 weeks following the bootcamp, or on completion of your final year of study.
Apply through the Workplus platform before 12 noon on Friday 13 November.
Will I get a job at the end of the bootcamp?
The bootcamp leads to 40, 16-week, full-time paid placements. If you don't secure one straight away, you're shortlisted again and put forward to interview with participating employers, so everyone leaves with real evidence of what they can do, not just a certificate.
What support will there be to help with my application?
If you have any questions while completing your application, you can use the chat function for immediate support. Workplus will also be hosting an online application clinic to guide you through the process, answer any questions, and help you feel confident submitting your application.
I have questions - where can I get in touch
You can reach out to the Workplus team using the blue chat box on the bottom right of your screen. Make sure to accept the cookies.
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