See how these skills can be vital in different work place situations and how you can master them and develop other key skills with LifeSkills
Build the skills employers want to get ahead in an AI-powered world
Article
Thinking about your future can feel a bit overwhelming, especially when technology and AI are changing the way we learn, work and live so quickly. The good news? The world is also full of new opportunities for young people who can combine technology with the skills that make them uniquely human.
That's why Barclays LifeSkills has launched Accelerate your skills, a new and exciting national competition designed to help you build the skills employers are looking for as AI becomes a bigger part of everyday life.
Entries opened to young people aged 11-25 on 2 September 2026 and close on Friday 18 December 2026.
The competition challenges you to tackle a real-world brief and develop a creative solution. Along the way, you'll learn how to use AI responsibly, think critically about the information it provides, and apply your own ideas, judgement and creativity to solve a real problem.
You can take part through your school, college, university or youth group, with your teacher, lecturer or group leader able to run it as part of lessons, lectures or enrichment activities.
Why it matters
Recent research from Barclays* highlights that employers increasingly value human skills alongside technical capabilities in an AI-enabled workplace.
More than two-thirds believe communication (70%), critical thinking (69%), creativity (68%) and problem solving (67%) are becoming more important as AI and new technologies transform the way we work.
Employers need people who can use their human skills alongside technology. Throughout the competition you'll develop skills such as:
- Critical thinking
- Creativity
- Communication
- Problem solving
- Adaptability
- Ethical reasoning
More than a competition
As well as creating an entry you can be proud of, you'll gain experience that can help you talk about your skills in future CVs, applications and personal statements. The competition toolkit even includes guidance on how to showcase what you've learned to employers.
How to get involved
Interested? Here's what you can do:
- Talk to a teacher, lecturer or youth leader about running the competition
- Share the competition page with your school, college, university or youth group
Good luck if you do get the chance to take part.
*Source Barclays newsroom
