Bupa creates AI, data and leadership apprenticeship academies

Bupa has said it will train 900 employees in artificial intelligence, data, technology and leadership roles over the next three years.

The plans, announced ahead of National Apprenticeship Week, introduce three new apprenticeship academies covering leadership, AI-enabled improvement, and data and technology. Each is expected to train around 300 people a year.

The intake will include 100 leaders focused on customer-centric care, 100 AI-enabled continuous improvement practitioners, and 100 data and technology specialists each year. A fourth academy will continue to offer professional skills training, including adult social care, procurement and supply.

The expansion comes as large employers face increasing pressure to develop in-house capability in AI and data, particularly in regulated sectors where external hiring can be difficult. Bupa said the apprenticeships were designed to allow employees to build new skills while remaining in role.

The programme is backed by Bupa’s £6 million Clinical Training Academy in Staines. 

Bupa is ranked 15th in the Department for Education’s Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers in England, and is the highest-ranked healthcare provider.

Andy Benson, apprenticeship delivery manager at Bupa UK, described apprenticeships as important as organisations adapt to change, adding: ‘A skilled workforce is better placed to respond to a fast-changing environment, while giving people the chance to progress and move into new roles.’

National Apprenticeship Week runs annually to promote the role of apprenticeships in workforce development.