Skills England launches AI apprenticeship to close digital skills gap

Skills England has launched an artificial intelligence (AI) and automation practitioner apprenticeship to help businesses adopt new technology and improve productivity. 

The aim is to upskill 10 million people in the UK by 2030, with the potential for AI to add £400bn to the economy.

Apprentices will learn to identify where AI and automation can save time and money and will work on real-world problems like duplicated data entry and manual processes. 

They will also be trained to use AI safely, including protecting sensitive data and complying with regulations. 

Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden, said: “Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming our economy, and I am determined that young people across the country are equipped to seize the opportunities it brings. 

“That means investing in the skills and training that will define the jobs of the future. 

“Through our apprenticeship reforms, we are creating genuine pathways into the high-skilled, high-growth industries that AI is creating – so that a young person’s chances are not determined by their background or where they grew up.”

McFadden added: “The fourth industrial revolution is already under way – our job is to make sure Britain is ready for it.”