Do I need coding skills for the AI & Automation apprenticeship?
No. The Level 4 AI & Automation Practitioner programme is designed for non-technical professionals. You learn to use AI tools like Microsoft Copilot or Google Gemini without writing any code. Available in Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace editions.
How is the AI & Automation apprenticeship funded?
It is fully funded through the Apprenticeship Levy for employers with payrolls over £3 million (the £3m payroll threshold). For smaller employers, the government covers 95% of costs through co-investment. The apprentice never pays.
How long does the AI & Automation Level 4 apprenticeship take?
The programme is 12 months of live online delivery + a 3-month End-Point Assessment window with BCS, with monthly rolling start dates available throughout the year. An accelerated 8-Month Fast-Track variant is also available as a closed cohort, also followed by the 3-month EPA window.
What qualifications do I earn?
You earn up to 5 qualifications including BCS Foundation Certificate in AI, Microsoft AB-730 (or Google AI Essentials), NCFE AI Prompt Mastery, NCFE Data, and NCFE Cyber Security Practices — more than any other UK provider. All sit at Level 3 or above and are bundled inside the £18,000 levy band.
Is the AI & Automation Practitioner apprenticeship fully funded?
Yes. The Level 4 AI & Automation Practitioner apprenticeship (ST1512) is fully funded through the Apprenticeship Levy at up to £18,000 per learner. Non-levy-paying employers pay just 5%, with the government covering the remaining 95%.
Who is the End-Point Assessment organisation?
BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, is the EPAO for ST1512. BCS is also one of our awarding bodies, which means integrated EPA preparation throughout the programme rather than bolted on at month 12. TESS Group apprentices achieve a 72% distinction rate.
What's the difference between standard and the 8-Month Fast-Track route?
The standard route is 12 months of delivery + a 3-month EPA window, with monthly rolling cohort starts. The 8-Month Fast-Track is a private closed cohort for your team, with 11 modules condensed into 8 months, BCS project assessed at the two-thirds point, then the 3-month EPA window afterwards. Both deliver the same standard, same £18,000 funding, and the same BCS End-Point Assessment.
Which departments benefit most?
Every department: HR, Finance, Operations, Marketing, Sales, Customer Service, and Administration. Anyone whose role involves repetitive tasks, data, or stakeholder communication will benefit. The programme is built for non-technical professionals across the business.
How is the apprenticeship delivered?
Delivered live online (Zoom or Microsoft Teams) across England, with around 20% off-the-job training time per apprentice. Face-to-face delivery is available for closed cohorts. Includes the Coachy AI tutor, powered by Claude, available 24/7 inside OneFile.
What is the distinction rate at TESS Group?
TESS Group apprentices achieve a 72% distinction rate on the AI & Automation Practitioner Level 4 apprenticeship, versus a UK national average of approximately 33%.