University of Leeds Shares Free Version of AI Staff Training Course
The University of Leeds has opened access to its introductory Generative AI (GenAI) training course, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to supporting the Higher Education sector and other industries through the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence.
This follows the course’s successful rollout as mandatory training for all staff and students in September 2025, titled 'Using GenAI at Leeds'.
To date, it has been completed by over 10,000 staff members and over 22,000 students, boosting AI confidence and capability across the institution.
Read more about how we're embracing AI at Leeds
A Sector-Wide Resource for Responsible AI Adoption
The training was developed as part of an institution-wide collaboration between the University’s Digital Education team, the Library Learning Development Team, Organisational Development and Professional Learning and other institutional experts.
The content is designed to help HE professionals in all roles navigate the opportunities and challenges of AI with confidence, critical thinking, and care, in line with the principles that underpin the University's broader AI strategy.
Designed to be completed in around 30 minutes, the course offers:
- Foundational understanding of AI and GenAI technologies
- Practical guidance on integrating AI into teaching and student support
- Ethical frameworks for responsible and inclusive AI use
- Real-world case studies from across the University of Leeds community
Supporting a Shared AI Journey Across the Sector
Professor Samantha Pugh, Academic Lead for Artificial Intelligence at the University of Leeds, emphasised the importance of collective learning and sector collaboration in this fast-moving landscape.
“AI is reshaping the way we work, learn, and innovate,” said Professor Pugh. “Our goal is to ensure that educators and professionals everywhere feel equipped to engage with these technologies thoughtfully and confidently. Sharing this resource is part of our commitment to supporting not just our own community, but the wider sector.”
Practical, Accessible Learning
The self-paced course is free to access online and requires no prior experience, offering:
- Clear, jargon-free explanations of key AI concepts
- Hands-on activities to explore AI tools
- Guidance on safeguarding academic integrity
- Strategies for enhancing student learning and staff workflows
Editable version available
The resource is now offered under a creative commons license, which grants the public permission to use the resource and adapt the content as needed for different purposes. If you would like to adapt this digital learning resource for your needs, an editable version of the pack used to create it (built in the Articulate 360 Rise authoring tool) is available upon request.
Fill in the course package request form
If you have any questions, please contact: [email protected]