What is TechFirst

TechFirst is the government’s flagship tech skills programme opening pathways into the UK’s fast-growing tech sector, providing opportunities across all parts of the UK. It builds on the success of CyberFirst and brings this support to new areas of technology, reaching more people than ever before.

For schools, TechFirst helps young people develop tech skills, get confident with AI and explore frontier technology careers. It is committed to widening access, representation and opportunity in the tech sector, with regional delivery shaped around local labour market needs, school networks, local authorities, employers and community organisations.

To learn more or get involved, talk to us.

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TechFirst AI apprenticeship Pathways

TechFirst AI Apprenticeship Pathways are designed to support young people at risk of becoming NEET by providing an alternative technical Level 3 destination. Building on a proof-of-concept programme underway across the North West, participants are supported to progress into either an AI Digital Technician or AI Content Creator apprenticeship, creating clear progression routes into Level 4 and Level 6 apprenticeships and long-term careers in the technology sector. As well as developing future talent, the programme helps young people make a positive transition into education, employment and training. Delivered in partnership with local authorities, employers and education providers, the programme creates clear routes into skilled employment while helping to develop the future digital workforce.

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Techfirst and mega hubs

MEGA is a place-based, complementary enrichment programme that builds on TechFirst by helping reach even more schools and colleges across the region. It supports the TechFirst journey by giving young people earlier exposure to employers, role models and future technology pathways, particularly in communities where access to digital, technology and industry networks may be more limited.

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Industry Encounters

Through employer encounters, mentoring, industry-led challenges, workplace experiences, careers enrichment, skills workshops and storytelling, MEGA helps young people build awareness, confidence and aspiration before progressing into more structured TechFirst opportunities.

Place-based insights

Together, MEGA and TechFirst create a connected regional journey from inspiration to progression. MEGA creates the early spark, local employer connection and enrichment activity; TechFirst provides the recognised national programme and pathway infrastructure that helps young people move into skills development, apprenticeship pathways, training opportunities and longer-term employment in the technology sector.

Progression routes may include:

  • AI and digital skills programmes
  • Post-16 A-Levels, T-Levels and BTEC
  • TechFirst AI Level 3 Apprenticeships
  • MEGA Scholarships
  • Degree-Level Apprenticeships
  • University
  • Degree-level apprenticeships