Growth & Skills Levy
Major changes to apprenticeship funding from April 2026. Understand the new rules and what they mean for your organisation.
Learn More →AI-Powered Apprenticeships for Manufacturing
AI-powered leadership, smart manufacturing, and operational transformation for UK manufacturing. Trusted by Sunbelt Rentals, Linde Material Handling, and NSK Europe.
Why Manufacturing Needs AI Skills Now
Smart Manufacturing & Industry 4.0
AI-driven predictive maintenance, quality control, and production planning are transforming manufacturing. Your shift managers and production leads need AI skills to lead this.
Supply Chain & Procurement Automation
AI tools can optimise supplier selection, demand forecasting, and inventory management. Build internal capability to automate procurement and reduce waste.
Workforce Upskilling & Retention
Manufacturing faces skills gaps at every level. Investing in AI leadership development retains your best people and builds the capability you need for the future.
Recommended Programmes
Every programme below uses a levy-funded apprenticeship standard that is not affected by September 2026 defunding. AI-first, future-proof, and recognised by CMI, NCFE, and Microsoft.
AI People Leaders L4
Apprenticeship · 15-18 monthsAI-powered leadership with CMI Level 3 for shift managers, production supervisors, and manufacturing team leads.
Learn MoreAI Operations Leaders L4
Apprenticeship · 15 monthsAI + CMI Level 5 Award for plant managers and operations directors driving smart manufacturing transformation.
Learn MoreAI & Automation Practitioner L4
Apprenticeship · 15 monthsNo-code AI tools for production scheduling, quality reporting, and supply chain automation. 15 months, levy-funded.
Learn MoreAssociate Project Manager L4
Apprenticeship · 18 monthsStructured project management for facility upgrades, lean manufacturing initiatives, and automation rollouts.
Learn MoreCMI Level 5 Management
CMI QualificationChartered Management Institute Level 5 for manufacturing middle managers stepping up to plant and regional leadership.
Learn MoreMate to Manager
1-Day Workshop1-day transition programme for new supervisors promoted from the shop floor. Build confidence and leadership fundamentals fast.
Learn More100%
Levy Funded
4.9/5
Employer Rating
Up to 5
Embedded Qualifications
15-18 mo
Programme Duration
Client Success
Sunbelt Rentals
Delivering leadership and management apprenticeships across Sunbelt's UK equipment rental and industrial services operations.
Linde Material Handling
Delivered management apprenticeships across Linde's UK forklift and warehouse equipment operations, building AI-literate leadership in industrial logistics.
NSK Europe
Partnered on leadership development for NSK's UK precision engineering and bearings manufacturing teams, upskilling operational managers in data-driven production management.
Otis
Implemented management apprenticeships across Otis's UK elevator and escalator operations, developing field service managers and regional operations leads.
LEARNER SUCCESS STORIES
Real People. Real Results.
See how apprentices in manufacturing have transformed their careers with TESS Group.
Team Leader Level 3
Department Head • Delifrance UK
The challenge:
A department head in a fast-paced manufacturing environment who had years of experience but no formal leadership qualification - relying on instinct rather than structured management techniques.
The outcome:
Gained a practical leadership toolkit that delivered results immediately. Day-to-day operations became smoother, team cohesion improved measurably, and the apprenticeship validated years of hands-on experience with a recognised qualification.
"Everything I learned was something I could apply immediately. My day-to-day operations are smoother and my team more cohesive."
Power Up Your Manufacturing Team
Book a free discovery call to explore how AI apprenticeships can drive smart manufacturing, operational efficiency, and leadership capability.
Book a Free Discovery Call