AI & Automation Apprenticeship Level 4

Level 4 apprenticeship for every department. No coding required. Master AI workflows, boost efficiency, and lead responsible automation adoption. Delivered nationwide across England via live online sessions.

Delivered nationwide across England — live online sessions via Zoom & Teams, with face-to-face available for closed cohorts

Why This Programme?

  • No coding required — Anyone can learn
  • Real workplace application — Automate your actual workflows
  • Every department — Not just IT
  • 4-5 qualifications — Microsoft + NCFE certified
  • 100% Levy funded — Zero out-of-pocket

Your Qualifications

Microsoft AB-730 NCFE Level 3 AI Practitioner 100% Levy Funded
4.9/5 from 682 Reviews Ofsted Good Provider One of Only 37 Approved AI Providers 95% Employer Satisfaction
Next Cohort Starting May 2026 — Monthly Starts, Limited Places Reserve Your Place →

Watch: AI & Automation for Every Department

Discover how non-technical professionals across HR, Finance, Marketing and Operations are becoming AI-powered practitioners.

4-5
Qualifications Included
15
Month Delivery
0
Coding Required
100%
Levy Funded

Built for Every Department, Not Just IT

This is the AI apprenticeship designed for the people who actually run your business

Operations

Automate repetitive workflows, streamline procurement processes, and use AI to predict bottlenecks before they cost you money. Build dashboards that surface real-time insights without needing a data team.

Human Resources

Use AI to accelerate recruitment screening, automate onboarding workflows, generate policy documents, and analyse employee engagement data — all while ensuring GDPR compliance and removing bias.

Finance

Automate invoice processing, reconciliation, and reporting. Use AI to spot anomalies, forecast cash flow, and generate financial summaries — reclaiming hours lost to manual spreadsheet work.

Marketing

Create content at scale with AI prompting skills, automate campaign workflows, personalise customer communications, and use data analytics to measure what actually drives results.

Sales & Customer Service

Build automated lead scoring, create AI-assisted customer response templates, streamline CRM workflows, and use predictive analytics to identify your highest-value opportunities.

Administration & Support

Eliminate repetitive admin tasks with no-code automations, create intelligent document processing workflows, and become the go-to AI champion who transforms how the whole office works.

Why AI & Automation Matters Now

The organisations moving fastest on AI aren't waiting for IT — they're upskilling every department. Here's why your team should start today.

Reclaim 10+ Hours Per Week

AI-powered workflow automation eliminates repetitive tasks across every role — from data entry to report generation. Your people work on what matters.

Every Department, Not Just IT

HR, Finance, Operations, Marketing, Sales, Admin — this programme is built for the people who actually run your business. No technical background needed.

Measurable ROI from Day One

Apprentices apply learning directly to real workplace projects. Employers see productivity gains, cost savings, and process improvements within weeks — not months.

Microsoft Copilot Mastery

Go beyond basic awareness — your team masters Copilot across Word, Excel, Teams, and Outlook, then earns the official Microsoft AB-730 certification.

4-5 Qualifications Included

Microsoft AI Business Professional, NCFE Cyber Security, NCFE Data, NCFE AI Prompt Mastery — all bundled at zero extra cost. Unmatched in the market.

100% Funded — Zero Cost

Fully covered through the Apprenticeship Levy or government co-investment. Your team gets a premium programme with 4-5 qualifications at no out-of-pocket cost.

Absolutely No Tech Background Needed

This programme is specifically designed for non-technical professionals. We use no-code and low-code tools, plain-English AI prompting, and real workplace scenarios from your own role. If you can use email and a spreadsheet, you can do this.

Zero Coding. Real Results.

Up to 5 Industry Qualifications — At No Extra Cost

Level 3 accredited qualifications that match the rigour of your Level 4 apprenticeship

Your learners graduate with four core qualifications (up to five for high performers) on top of their Level 4 apprenticeship. Every qualification sits at Level 3 or above — matching the rigour employers expect from a Level 4 programme. This combination is unique in the market.
NCFE Level 3

Cyber Security Practices

Go beyond awareness into practical security assessment, incident response, and risk management — essential skills for deploying AI safely in any organisation.

NCFE Level 3

Certificate in Data

Master data visualisation, data modelling, and data-driven decision making — the analytical foundation behind every AI-powered insight.

NCFE Level 3 CQ

AI Prompt Mastery

Our bespoke NCFE-accredited qualification. Design effective prompts across AI models using chain-of-thought, role prompting, and iterative refinement for professional outputs.

Microsoft Certified

AI Business Professional

The official Microsoft certification (AB-730) for using Copilot and generative AI in business contexts. Globally recognised. No coding required.

BCS Foundation

Foundation Certificate in AI

For top-performing learners: the BCS Foundation Certificate in AI (SFIA 3–4 equivalent) — covering AI ethics, governance, responsible deployment, and generative AI. Doubles as EPA prep.

Comparison note: Most competing providers offer the apprenticeship standard alone with no additional qualifications. Some include basic Copilot awareness training. Only TESS Group delivers up to five accredited qualifications — all at Level 3 or above — including a globally recognised Microsoft certification, embedded within the programme.

How We Compare

The only provider delivering this calibre of AI apprenticeship

TESS Group
4-5 accredited qualifications at Level 3+
Microsoft AI Business Professional (AB-730)
NCFE AI Prompt Mastery, Cyber Security & Data
BCS Foundation Certificate for high achievers
Department-specific modules for real application
Ofsted Good + 4.9/5 on Google & Trustpilot
No-code tools — zero coding required
VS
Typical Provider
0-1 qualifications (if any)
No Microsoft certification included
Basic Copilot awareness at best
No additional awarding body certs
Generic content, not role-specific
Inconsistent quality and reviews
May require technical background
Book a Discovery Chat

What Your People Will Learn

11 Modules + Qualifications covering every aspect of AI adoption and automation

Module 01

AI Ethics & Values

Build the business case for ethical AI adoption. Manage reputational risk, improve staff morale, and create trust across your organisation.

All Departments
Module 02

Governance, Law & GDPR

Navigate legal frameworks for automation, including employment rights, equality legislation, and data protection requirements with confidence.

HRFinanceOps
Module 03

Spotting Waste & Inefficiency

Map workflows, uncover hidden waste, and identify the highest-impact opportunities for AI and automation to transform outcomes.

All
Module 04

Building for People

Augmentation, not Replacement. Design AI systems that enhance human capabilities without creating disruption. Make technology a true ally.

All Departments
Module 05

No-Code Automation Tools

Hands-on with low-code and no-code platforms. Select, configure, and deploy automation software — no programming skills needed.

OpsMarketingAdmin
Module 06

Change Management & AI Impact

Lead colleagues through automation-driven change with empathy, resilience, and buy-in. Foster inclusion throughout your organisation.

HRAll
Module 07

Data-Driven Decision Making

Use AI to analyse complex data and generate actionable insights. Make smarter, evidence-based decisions at every level.

FinanceOpsSales
Module 08

Agile Testing & Piloting

Run AI pilots from concept to delivery. Evaluate against budgets, iterate on feedback, and prove ROI before full rollout.

All Departments
Module 09

AI Risk & Security

Conduct assurance activities, apply governance frameworks, and implement risk mitigation to keep AI tools safe and accountable.

All Departments
Module 10

Winning AI Support & Buy-In

Master the communication skills to advocate for AI-driven change. Influence leaders, colleagues, and boards with confidence.

All Departments
Module 11

Microsoft Copilot in Practice

Apply AI across Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams using Microsoft Copilot. Prepare for the AB-730 Microsoft certification exam.

All Departments
Integrated

Qualifications Embedded

Throughout the programme: NCFE L3 Cyber Security Practices, L3 Certificate in Data, AI Prompt Mastery CQ, and Microsoft AI Business Professional (AB-730) certification.

Up to 5 Qualifications

Microsoft Copilot in Practice — What Your Team Will Master

Module 11 isn't a quick demo — it's hands-on mastery of Microsoft Copilot across the tools your team uses every day. By the end, they'll be the person everyone turns to for AI productivity tips.

Copilot in Word
Draft reports, summarise documents, rewrite for tone and audience — turn 2 hours of writing into 15 minutes.
Copilot in Excel
Analyse data with natural language, generate formulas, create charts, and spot trends without touching a pivot table.
Copilot in Outlook
Summarise email threads, draft replies, prioritise your inbox, and schedule smarter — reclaim hours every week.
Copilot in Teams
Meeting summaries, action items, catch-up on missed calls — never ask "what did I miss?" again.
Copilot in PowerPoint
Generate presentations from a brief, redesign slides, add speaker notes — board-ready decks in minutes.
AB-730 Certification
Your team earns the official Microsoft AI Business Professional credential — globally recognised, CV-enhancing, and included at no extra cost.

Why this matters: Microsoft 365 Copilot licences cost employers £22/user/month — but most organisations see low adoption because staff don't know how to use it effectively. This module ensures your investment in Copilot actually pays off, with trained champions who can cascade best practice across the business.

Employer Return on Investment

Fully funded through the Apprenticeship Levy — here's what your business gains.

🚀
40%
Average productivity increase through AI workflow automation
💰
£0
Out-of-pocket cost for Levy-paying employers
📈
4-5
Industry qualifications per apprentice — at no extra cost
⚡
77%
Faster task completion with AI-assisted processes
What Your Team Delivers Post-Programme
AI Tool Adoption
88%
Workflow Automation Rate
75%
Time Savings Realised
92%

Your Learner Journey & End Point Assessment

15-Month Delivery + Gateway & EPA timeline — structured for real-world impact

Months 1–2
Foundations & AI Readiness
Onboarding, skills assessment, AI concepts and ethical frameworks, digital confidence baseline. Setting the scene for everything that follows.
Months 3–5
AI Prompting, Data & Automation
NCFE AI Prompt Mastery L3 CQ, NCFE L3 Certificate in Data, and no-code workflow automation. Building the practical AI skills that drive daily impact.
Months 6–9
Security, Governance & Risk
NCFE L3 Cyber Security Practices, GDPR compliance, algorithmic impact assessment, change management, and agile testing. The governance backbone of responsible AI.
Months 10–12
Advanced Application & Microsoft Copilot
Microsoft Copilot mastery, stakeholder engagement, strategic advocacy. Microsoft AI Business Professional exam (AB-730). Winning buy-in at every level.
Months 13–15
Workplace Project & Portfolio
Apply everything to a real business challenge. Build your evidence portfolio. Demonstrate measurable commercial impact. Gateway readiness review.
Post Month 15
Gateway & End Point Assessment
Gateway sign-off, then formal EPA: Work-Based Project (mandatory) plus at least one of Professional Discussion, Presentation, Simulated Task, or Portfolio. Graded Pass or Distinction.

End Point Assessment

Official ST1512 V2.0 — Graded Pass or Distinction

Project

Mandatory

Deliver a substantial AI or automation project solving a genuine business problem. Demonstrate you can identify inefficiencies, implement solutions, and measure commercial impact.

+

Additional Assessment

At Least One

The Assessment Organisation selects from four methods — ensuring flexible, authentic assessment of real-world skills built throughout the programme.

Presentation Simulated Task Professional Discussion Portfolio

6 Assessment Outcomes

Every assessment method evaluates your competence across all six outcomes

AO1

Strategic & Ethical Adoption of AI Automation

Supports leaders in adopting AI responsibly by aligning solutions with organisational values, ethical principles, and workforce needs.

AO2

Solution Design & Development

Designs and configures AI and automation solutions using appropriate tools, platforms, and integration methods aligned with business needs.

AO3

Testing, Evaluation & Iteration

Assesses solution viability through testing, user feedback, and feasibility analysis. Iterates to optimise performance and reliability.

AO4

Governance, Assurance & Risk Management

Implements assurance activities, applies governance frameworks, and conducts algorithmic impact assessments for compliance and accountability.

AO5

Stakeholder Engagement & Workforce Enablement

Engages with diverse stakeholders to support inclusive adoption. Delivers training and communicates technical concepts accessibly.

AO6

Continuous Improvement & Change Delivery

Identifies opportunities to improve productivity through automation. Contributes to sustainable change and reports on outcomes.

Why Choose TESS Group

We set the gold standard for AI apprenticeship training

Ofsted Good Provider

Independently verified quality. Our training meets the highest standards of delivery, learner support, and outcomes.

4.9/5 on Google & Trustpilot

Exceptional learner satisfaction. Our reviews speak for themselves — consistently rated among the best in the UK.

Up to 5 Qualifications — All Level 3+

No other provider includes this calibre of accredited qualifications. Every one at Level 3 or above — a qualification stack no competitor can match.

Built for Non-Technical Professionals

Designed for HR, Finance, Marketing, Operations, and every department. No coding. No tech background required. Just real-world impact.

Microsoft Certification Partner

Including the brand-new AB-730 AI Business Professional certification, connecting your people directly to the Microsoft Copilot ecosystem.

Testimonial

"This programme doesn't just teach AI — it transforms how our entire team thinks about their work. The results have been immediate and measurable." — Programme Delegate, 2026

Why TESS Stands Apart

🎓

4-5 Qualifications Bundled

Microsoft, NCFE, and more — all included

⚙️

11 Integrated Modules

AI + Automation + Governance + Copilot

✅

Apprenticeship Model

Learn, apply, assess — real workplace impact

Other Providers Teach AI.
TESS Transforms Your Workforce.

✓

No Coding Required — Ever

Every module is designed for non-technical professionals. Your team members from HR, Finance, Operations, Marketing, and beyond can all participate. Zero coding, maximum impact.

✓

Microsoft Copilot Certified

Not just awareness — your team sits the official AB-730 exam and earns Microsoft AI Business Professional certification. The only apprenticeship that includes this.

✓

Workplace Project = Real ROI

Your apprentice doesn't just learn — they deliver an AI & automation project in your business. End-to-end: scope, implement, measure, present results to leadership.

This programme doesn't just teach AI — it transforms how entire teams think about their work. The qualifications are a bonus, but the real value is watching people who've never automated anything start building workflows that save hours every week.
👩‍💼
Sarah Mitchell
L&D Director, National Retailer (TESS Employer, 2025)

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about our Level 4 AI & Automation Apprenticeship

What makes this programme different from other AI apprenticeships? +
TESS Group is the only provider delivering up to five accredited qualifications at Level 3 or above — including NCFE, Microsoft, and BCS certifications — embedded within a single Level 4 apprenticeship. Our programme is built around real workplace application, not theory-only content. Every module is designed so learners apply what they learn in their own role, using no-code tools and plain-English AI prompting.
Who is this programme for? +
This programme is designed for non-technical professionals across every department: HR, Finance, Marketing, Operations, Administration, Sales, and more. Ideal learners are early to mid-career professionals, team leaders, process owners, or change agents who want to use AI and automation to improve how their team works. No coding or tech background is needed.
How long does the programme take? +
The programme runs for 15 months of delivery plus Gateway and End Point Assessment. Months 1-12 cover active learning, qualification preparation, and workplace project work. Months 13-15 focus on evidence portfolio building and Gateway readiness. Typical duration to Gateway sign-off is 18 months. EPA follows Gateway and is graded Pass or Distinction.
Is this fully funded? +
Yes. The programme falls within the £18,000 apprenticeship funding band and is fully funded through the Apprenticeship Levy for levy-paying employers. Non-levy employers may access 95% government co-investment. There are no hidden training costs.
How is the programme delivered? +
All sessions are delivered via live online workshops (Zoom or Microsoft Teams), so your team can learn from their desks — no travel or venue costs required. We deliver nationwide across England, running closed cohorts so your team learns together. Face-to-face delivery can be arranged on request.
What qualifications will my team earn? +
Up to five industry-recognised qualifications: NCFE L3 Cyber Security Practices, NCFE L3 Certificate in Data, NCFE L3 CQ AI Prompt Mastery, Microsoft AI Business Professional (AB-730), and for high achievers, BCS Foundation Certificate in AI. All sit at Level 3 or above.
How does the End Point Assessment work? +
The EPA follows the official ST1512 V2.0 standard and is assessed against 6 Assessment Outcomes. It includes a mandatory Work-Based Project and at least one additional assessment method (Professional Discussion, Presentation, Simulated Task, or Portfolio). Graded Pass or Distinction.

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Ready to Transform Your Workforce?

Fully funded through the Apprenticeship Levy or co-investment models. Enrol your team today and start seeing AI-powered productivity gains within weeks.

Book a Discovery Chat

Related Reading

Manager's Guide: AI & Automation L4
Module-by-module support guide for line managers
The Complete Guide to AI Apprenticeships
Standards, levels, funding, qualifications, and ROI
NVIDIA's CEO: Every Worker Should Learn AI
Managing the task, not being the task
Employer Incentives 2026
Up to £5,000 in stacked incentives for AI apprentices

Trusted by leading employers across the UK

DPD — UK delivery partner NHS — National Health Service Financial Times National Highways Clarins Arriva — transport group Sunbelt Rentals SKF — engineering company Crystal Palace FC Transport for London

Trusted Partners & Awarding Bodies

Qualifications delivered and assessed by the industry's leading bodies

Microsoft AI Industry Leader Certified Microsoft AI Industry Leader
BCS — The Chartered Institute for IT BCS Chartered Institute for IT
NCFE Accredited Qualifications NCFE Awarding Body
1st for Awarding — End-Point Assessment Organisation 1st for Awarding EPAO Partner
Ofsted Good rated training provider Ofsted Good Provider