Description
This apprenticeship develops colleagues into confident, forward‑thinking managers who can lead, design and scale AI‑powered automation that solves real operational challenges. It blends practical automation skills with core leadership capability, helping teams work smarter, reduce inefficiencies and make better, data‑driven decisions.
Who will benefit
Great for colleagues who:
- Work with digital processes, data, workflows or AI‑enabled systems
- Regularly review or improve manual or repetitive processes
- Want to understand how to identify, design and implement automation
- Are involved in operational change, continuous improvement or digital transformation
- Want to build confidence in leading teams through AI‑driven change
Key Features
Aligned to the AI & Automation Practitioner standard, the programme builds capability through:
- How to identify high‑value automation opportunities in day‑to‑day operations
- Designing practical AI solutions that address real business problems
- Using no‑code AI tools, Power Platform and Azure AI services
- Generative AI fundamentals and advanced prompt engineering
- Responsible, ethical and well‑governed AI deployment
- Measuring and communicating the impact of automation
- Leading teams through AI adoption and embedding new ways of working
- Hands‑on virtual labs, workplace projects and a collaborative AI delivery sprint
- Industry‑recognised certifications (Azure AI‑900, Power Platform PL‑900 & PL‑200)
- CMI Certificate in Managing AI Adoption + Foundation Chartered Manager status
Time commitment
You’ll need protected time during working hours and should feel confident you can balance this with your role. Your journey will broadly include:
Fixed time (approx. 3 hours per week)
- Live online training sessions
- Coaching and progress reviews
- Workshops (Leader as Coach series)
Flexible time (approx. 3 hours per week)
- Self‑directed study
- Virtual labs and e‑learning
- Workplace reflections and project work
- Building your portfolio
- Preparation for assessments and EPA
BPP Support
Throughout the programme you’ll receive:
- Regular 1:1 performance coaching
- Industry‑experienced tutors
- Access to BPP’s virtual learning environment, The Hub
- Emerging Skills Programme (AI, Cyber, Sustainability, Microsoft Essentials)
- Optional masterclasses on topics like AI strategy, ethical hacking and data leadership
Progression opportunities
After completing this programme, colleagues can progress into more advanced pathways such as:
- BSc Data Scientist (Level 6)
- AI Engineer (Level 6)