Liverpool digital and creative agency GoodShip* says its collaboration with Liverpool John Moores University to prepare students for an ‘AI-enabled future’ will expand after a successful first year. Tony McDonough reports
A Liverpool programme that helps university students to develop practical AI skills while working on live challenges is to expand after a successful first year.
Liverpool digital and creative agency GoodShip*, founded by Gavin Sherratt, started the Expand AI Activator Programme in collaboration with Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) 12 months ago.
Originally developed as a pilot to explore how artificial intelligence could enhance employability, confidence and career readiness, the programme has now evolved.
GoodShip* and LJMU say it has become a “proven model” that is helping students develop practical AI skills while working on live challenges for businesses, charities and social impact organisations.
Earlier this month, two AI Activator cohorts completed programmes with LJMU, demonstrating how quickly students can move from limited experience with AI tools to creating practical ideas, strategic recommendations and working prototypes.
Its latest cohorts worked with organisations including Liverpool Women’s Hospital Charity, Laurel’s Woods CIC and ARK Immersive using AI platforms such as Google Gemini, Canva, Granola and Lovable to tackle real-world challenges.
Students presented their final solutions to industry guests, employers and business leaders at Barclays Eagle Labs Liverpool in an event supported by Liverpool Chamber.
Gavin Sherratt said: “The AI Activator was created to help people develop confidence, capability and curiosity, not just technical skills.
“What we’ve learned over the last 12 months is that when students are given access to emerging technologies, meaningful challenges and the right support, they can achieve extraordinary outcomes far faster than traditional approaches would suggest.
“The most important thing we’ve seen isn’t the technology. It’s the confidence people gain when they realise what they’re capable of creating.”
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LJMU has played a central role in supporting the programme’s development, helping connect students with industry challenges and creating opportunities for practical, experiential learning.
Feedback from participating students highlights the programme’s impact on both confidence and career aspirations.
Following the success of the pilot year, GoodShip* and LJMU are now exploring opportunities to further expand the programme and create pathways for more students, education providers and employers to participate.