Think Data and AI
Data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) professional learning for the Scottish public and third sectors
November, 2025
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Welcome from Yor Turner, Scottish Government
Building strong data literacy and understanding the potential of AI is essential if we are to harness emerging technologies to transform and reform public services. Continuing to empower a digitally confident workforce, capable of interpreting, using, presenting, and communicating data effectively to shape better policies, design better services, and deliver improved outcomes for the people of Scotland is key.
Across the public and third sectors, each of us has a role to play in using data and AI responsibly and creatively, whether to support decision-making, share insights, manage workloads, or lead teams to deliver real impact. To achieve our ambition of being a world leader in the ethical and effective use of AI, we must keep developing our skills and confidence. I’ve asked the Scottish Digital Academy to offer a range of flexible learning opportunities throughout November, and I really encourage you to take part.
Happy learning!
Yor Turner
Chief Operating Officer for Digital and Head of Profession (Digital, Data and Technology)
Professional Learning from The Data Lab
Understanding Data and AI Executive Briefing
A one hour taster session, structured as a 45-minute talk with a 15-minute Q&A, this executive offering from The Data Lab will introduce participants to the latest trends in AI and highlight how these technologies are transforming society, the economy and organisational operations / logistics.
Foundations of Data & AI Leadership Workshop
‘Foundations of Data & AI Leadership’ is a four-hour learning module, delivered by The Data Lab. It’s designed to equip leaders and managers with the fundamental skills and knowledge to implement data and AI driven initiatives for the benefit of their team or organisation.
Self-directed learning – Driving Value from AI
This course pulls together thought leadership, experienced practitioners and engaging activities that you need to work responsibly and ethically with AI. You will leave this course with the confidence and credibility to make a real impact with AI for your team, organisation or stakeholders.
Scottish AI Playbook Training and Skills
Scotland’s world-class universities, advanced infrastructure, and collaborative business communities give SMEs a strong foundation for adopting AI. This guide provides practical steps for identifying skills gaps, structuring effective training programs, and implementing learning strategies .
Better Data Community Conference
Returning for its third year, the Better Data Community Conference runs from 3 to 6 November 2025.
Opened by Tom Wilkinson, Chief Data Officer at the Scottish Government, we’re exploring how data and AI can help deliver on Scotland’s key Programme for Government priorities, from growing the economy and tackling child poverty, to addressing the climate emergency and improving public services.
The conference coincides with Think Data and AI, amplifying opportunities for learning, networking and innovation.
Join us for four days of inspiration as we explore the future of sustainable AI, open data, data sharing, data literacy and impact-driven innovation.
Register now and be part of this Data and AI experience!
Event Agenda and Registration
Think Data and AI delivery partners
Our delivery partners are providing a range of webinars and resources related to data and AI. To attend, browse and select the webinar/s that interest you and complete the registration process. If you’re unsure or need support, email digitalacademy@gov.scot for help.
If you’re a supplier or learning provider and wish to offer a webinar or similar resource, contact us. To note that you must be registered on PCS and the Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS).
Webinars and interactive sessions
AI is for Everyone
5 November 14:00 to 15:00
Data Literacy Academy
Great decisions need confident people, not just clever tools. This session demystifies AI Literacy for Scotland’s public services: what it is (and isn’t), why it matters now, and how to raise confidence across every role, from policy and delivery to operations and front-line services.
AI: The Art of the Possible in Scotland’s the Public Sector
12 November 15:00 to 16:00
Data Literacy Academy
What can AI practically do for the public sector today? This session explores where data and AI can improve specific outcomes, from faster evidence synthesis and better correspondence handling to more personalised citizen support, with clear guardrails for responsible use.
Responsible AI in the Public Sector
19 November 14:00 to 15:00
Data Literacy Academy
AI must be useful and safe. This session translates responsible-AI principles into day-to-day practice for Scotland’s public services. We’ll cover proportionate governance across the delivery lifecycle, explain how LLMs and agentic patterns change assurance needs, and share a lightweight checklist for risk, data quality, transparency, and records.
Prompt to Productivity: Copilot Chat Essentials
21 November 14:00 to 15:00
QA
Whether you’re new to Copilot Chat or already exploring what it can do, you’ll learn how to craft effective prompts, use the chat interface confidently, and see real-world examples in action.
Prompt to Productivity: Be scared then be safe
24 November 13:00 to 14:30
QA
Deploying Microsoft Copilot can expose data you didn’t realise was accessible. Successful deployment requires more than setup, it needs strong information protection. This webinar covers why preparation matters and the Microsoft Information Protection model.
Executive Leadership Talk: AI for Scotland’s Future
25 November 10:00 to 11:00
Alba Partners
Join Alba Partners for a focused executive session designed for senior leaders, decision-makers, and transformation stakeholders across Scotland’s public and third sectors.
AI Skills Lab – AI for Policy Making Prompts
25 November 15:00 to 15:30
Apolitical
A live, interactive online event introducing practical ways policymakers can use AI to generate insights and improve efficiency.
People, Process, Technology, Culture – The importance of a Target Operating Model in the journey to becoming data and AI led
26 November 10:00 to 12:00
Sword
This session with Sword, explores the key foundational components of an operating model that will help organisations become Data led and increasingly AI ready in a fast changing technology landscape.
Debate: “Our people are the biggest blocker to value from AI in public services.”
27 November 16:00 to 17:00
Data Literacy Academy
This debate centres on a provocative statement to test assumptions and surface practical actions. Are culture, skills, and operating models the real constraint, or is it governance, data quality, and legacy tech? Greg will chair a structured debate where participants examine both sides, identify root causes, and co-create a short list of “no-regrets” actions for teams across Scotland’s public services. Expect respectful challenge, evidence-led arguments, and tangible takeaways to accelerate value from AI.
Scottish AI Alliance
Delivering on Scotland’s vision to be a leader in trustworthy, ethical and inclusive AI
Read more about Scotland’s AI Strategy, access the AI Playbook and explore resources.
Read moreAdditional resources and courses from Apolitical
All of the resources listed below can be accessed via the Scottish Learning Hub on the Apolitical platform, which is free for all public servants to join.
AI Leadership in Government: Building Trust, Skills and an Innovative Culture
- What it is: A flagship online course designed for government leaders and managers. It explores how to foster innovation, build public trust, and develop the organisational capabilities needed for effective AI use.
- What you’ll gain: Practical tools for responsible AI adoption, frameworks for decision-making, and case studies from across government.
- How to access: Available through the Apolitical Scottish Government Hub for all registered public servants.
Building the AI-Ready Government Report
- What it is: A comprehensive research report outlining how governments can prepare for AI. It highlights global best practices, governance frameworks, and workforce strategies.
- Why it matters: Helps leaders assess their organisation’s readiness and identify gaps.
- How to access: Download directly here (PDF).
The AI Readiness Check
- What it is: An interactive self-assessment tool that helps teams benchmark their AI maturity across culture, skills, infrastructure, and governance.
- Why it matters: Offers tailored recommendations to strengthen capability and plan next steps.
- How to access: Complete the check online here.