Employers urged to back 1,000 AI apprenticeships
National pledge aims to create 1,000 AI, data and tech apprenticeships by 2027, with employers asked to hire one apprentice each.
A nationwide pledge to create 1,000 AI, data and technology apprenticeship opportunities for young people by February 2027 has launched, as employers continue to face persistent digital skills shortages.
The initiative calls on organisations to commit to hiring a single apprentice, positioning this as a practical route to strengthening internal digital capability while widening access to high-demand careers. It comes as only 26% of UK organisations report being able to deploy AI at scale, highlighting a gap between ambition and capability.
Demand for AI and data skills is accelerating across sectors, yet many young people are struggling to access entry points into these roles. The programme is designed to connect employers with early career talent, offering an alternative to more costly hiring strategies such as senior recruitment or outsourcing.
Led by BPP, the UK’s largest apprenticeship provider, the initiative also includes structured support for participating employers. This includes access to recruitment services, learning resources and guidance on apprenticeship levy transfers.
A two-day pre-apprenticeship programme will be introduced for all recruits, covering workplace readiness skills including critical thinking, collaboration and adaptability, aimed at supporting faster transition into productive roles and improving retention.
The pledge aligns with wider government priorities to reduce the number of young people not in education, employment or training. The provider reports it is already supporting 1,159 individuals from this group into apprenticeships, generating £17.8 million in social value.
Nicki Hay MBE, director of apprenticeship strategy and policy at BPP, said: ‘We’re at a critical moment for the future skills landscape. Businesses need digital skills to grow, but too many young people are struggling to access these opportunities.
‘By committing to just one apprentice, employers can strengthen their workforce and help shape the future of the UK economy.’
A series of employer events running from late April to June will offer guidance on how organisations can take part and implement apprenticeship programmes.
More information via BPP’s Apprenticeship webpage.
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