HMRC has accelerated its AI training programme, equipping 25,549 staffers with Microsoft 365 Copilot training as part of its latest learning initiative, according to official figures.
The data revealed that in 2024 to 2025 more than 80,000 digital, data and technology courses were completed through its Digital Academy, of which more than 11,000 were AI-focused.
The data, uncovered by software platform Acting Office using the Freedom of Information Act, also revealed that 13.2% of the organisation’s 66,000 staff have undertaken its One Big Thing AI learning module.
HMRC’s flagship Digital Academy, launched in 2023, also continued to train staffers, including field officers, senior official and back-office staff for ‘an AI-enabled future’.
Kenny MacAulay, CEO of Acting Office, a software platform for accounting practices commented: “The sooner HMRC catches up with the AI, the better. Accountancy firms across the country remain like a rabbit in the headlights with this technology, with many bungling implementations or avoiding the inevitable altogether. AI is here to stay, and forward-thinking organisations need a complete rethink about how they use it to deliver value, not just automating simple tasks, but overhauling entire workflows. Firms that treat AI as a bolt-on will be left behind.”
The organisation also revealed that it is providing internal upskilling programmes for all its staff, supporting initiatives such as boot camps, accelerators, and Associate Data Engineering programmes. It stated that, approximately 80 staffers were currently both studying and completing practical coursework in AI and Data Science degree apprenticeships.
Sheila Flavell CBE, COO of FDM Group commented: “As AI adoption accelerates across industries, organisations must ensure their workforce has the skills to work effectively alongside these technologies. Our research highlights that over half (54 percent) of organisations now say AI skills will be required in all early-career roles.”
“AI is not a replacement for human expertise, it amplifies it, but only when employees are equipped with the skills to apply these tools effectively. For graduates, that means building practical, applied AI skills from day one. For organisations, it means embedding AI training and upskilling current staff, in order to future-proof the workforce.”
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