AI for Non-Technical Professionals: Introducing Our Level 4 AI and Automation Practitioner Apprenticeship

Artificial intelligence isn’t coming — it’s already here. The organisations that will thrive aren’t necessarily the ones with the biggest budgets. They’re the ones with people who know how to use AI well. That’s exactly why we’re excited to offer the Level 4 AI and Automation Practitioner Apprenticeship. It’s a fully funded, 18-month programme designed to turn your existing talent into confident, capable AI practitioners.

What is the AI and Automation Practitioner Apprenticeship?

This Level 4 programme is built for early to mid-level professionals who want to go beyond the basics. Learners develop the skills to spot where AI and automation can make a real difference. They also learn to implement practical solutions using low-code and no-code tools, and to champion responsible, ethical AI within their organisations.

What makes this programme stand out is its dual focus. On the one hand, it covers the technical side: workflows, automation tools, and data-driven decision making. On the other hand, it places equal weight on the human element. This includes change management, GDPR compliance, ethical leadership, and bringing colleagues and senior leaders along on the journey.

As a result, learners don’t just come back with knowledge. They return with immediately applicable skills and the confidence to drive meaningful change.

Who is it for?

This apprenticeship is ideal for anyone in your organisation who wants to drive digital improvement. Think project managers, team leaders, operations professionals, and analysts. In fact, anyone who regularly works with processes, data, or systems is a great fit. You don’t need a technical background to enrol.

As one of our learners put it: “A perfect course for Future AI Superusers and Organisation Change Agents.”

What does the programme cover?

Over 18 months, learners work through ten rich modules. Together, these cover every angle of AI in the workplace.

• The Ethical Frontier sets the tone. It explores why ethical AI isn’t just the right thing to do, but also the smart business choice. Topics include reputational risk, staff morale, and long-term sustainability.
• Governance, Law, and GDPR in the AI Age gives learners the knowledge to ensure every digital solution they build or recommend is legally compliant, transparent, and fair.
• Spotting Waste and Inefficiency equips teams with practical tools to map workflows and identify bottlenecks. Learners then uncover high-impact opportunities for automation.
• Building for People focuses on the principle of augmentation, not replacement. The aim is to design AI systems that amplify human strengths rather than create anxiety or disruption.
• No-Code Automation Tools makes automation accessible to everyone, regardless of technical background. Learners can automate routine tasks and free up time for higher-value work.
• Change Management and the Social Impact of AI addresses the people side of digital transformation. It covers how to support colleagues through change with empathy, resilience, and genuine inclusion.
• Data-Driven Decision Making teaches learners to use AI to turn complex data into clear, actionable insights. This applies at every level of the organisation.
• Agile Testing and Piloting covers the full journey from idea to implementation. Learners discover how to test, iterate, and refine AI solutions based on real-world feedback.
• AI Risk and Security builds expertise in governance frameworks and risk mitigation. This ensures AI tools remain accountable, safe, and aligned with organisational values.
• Winning AI Support and Buy-In develops the communication and influencing skills needed to make the case for change. Whether in front of a team, a department head, or a board, learners will feel prepared.

How is it assessed?

The End Point Assessment has three components. First, learners complete a work-based AI or automation project that tackles a genuine business challenge. They then present their findings and produce a detailed report.Second, they take part in a professional discussion. This is supported by a portfolio of evidence gathered throughout the programme.Finally, learners complete a technical test covering legal, ethical, and practical frameworks.

The result? Real, demonstrable skills — not just a qualification on a CV.

How is it funded?

The programme is fully levy-funded for employers who pay the Apprenticeship Levy. This means there’s no direct cost to your business. For non-levy paying employers, co-investment options are available. In this case, the government covers 95% of the training costs.

In short, this is one of the most cost-effective ways to upskill your workforce in one of the most in-demand areas of the modern economy.

Why The Tess Group?

We’re rated 4.9/5 on both Google and Trustpilot. We’re also recognised as an Ofsted Good Provider. So you can be confident your team is in expert hands.

Our learners tell us the programme genuinely changes the way they work. The feedback speaks for itself: “This programme helps increase my productivity and makes my life easier.”

We deliver this apprenticeship in partnership with the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) and 1st for Awarding. Together, we bring you a programme that is academically rigorous, practically grounded, and built for the real world.

📞 01604 210 500 ✉️ [email protected] 🌐 www.tessgroup.co.uk

The future of work is being shaped right now. Let’s make sure your team is shaping it too.