Essex public sector launches AI skills academy through levy-funded Multiverse training program
ecda will upskill 70 UK staff across Essex County Council, the University of Essex, and Thurrock Council with AI-focused apprenticeships to improve local services
The Essex Centre for Data Analytics (ecda) has launched an AI training academy to develop digital capabilities among staff at Essex County Council, the University of Essex, and Thurrock Council. The program, fully funded through the apprenticeship levy, will train 70 employees using AI-specific apprenticeships delivered by Multiverse.
ecda is a cross-sector partnership focused on using data analytics to support public service improvement across Essex. The organization aims to increase technical capabilities, enable evidence-led decision-making, and promote ethical use of data. Its AI Academy marks the first coordinated step toward integrating artificial intelligence tools across its member institutions.
AI-focused training for councils and university staff
Multiverse, an apprenticeship provider that offers training in AI, data, and digital tools, will deliver two programs to participating teams. Forty staff members will take part in a Level 4 apprenticeship titled AI for Business Value, which lasts 13 months and focuses on designing AI solutions that align with ethical and organizational standards. An additional 30 individuals will join the AI-Powered Productivity Level 3 course, designed to help employees adopt generative AI tools for workflow automation and efficiency.
Nicola Mallett, Head of Profession for Data, Analytics and Performance at Essex County Council, says: “We are committed to empowering our workforce with the AI skills needed to enable them to navigate the use of everyday AI to enhance productivity and identify transformative opportunities for local services. Through this apprenticeship programme, we will equip our staff with the knowledge to implement AI ethically and robustly, enabling them to work more efficiently and collaboratively, ultimately driving better outcomes for Essex communities.”
Partners aim to improve public service outcomes
The academy brings together employees from different public institutions to collaborate on AI use cases. The University of Essex will use the training to explore AI’s role in enhancing administrative systems and the student experience. Thurrock Council aims to improve operational efficiency in its service delivery.
Sarah Tattersall, Assistant Registrar at the University of Essex, says: “Investing in AI upskilling, through the apprenticeship levy, is a great way for us to better understand the benefits AI can deliver and provide an additional way to develop our staff in cutting edge technologies. We are excited to see the impact this learning will have for the University, and how it improves the student experience over the coming months.”
Dan Fenwick, Executive Director of Corporate Services at Thurrock Council, adds: “We’re always looking for ways to enhance our capabilities and deliver the best outcomes for Thurrock residents. The academy will help our teams to use technology to respond to residents’ needs more efficiently and effectively.”
Multiverse highlights replicable model for AI readiness
Multiverse has delivered digital apprenticeships to more than 20,000 individuals since 2016 and works with over 1,500 organizations across the United Kingdom and United States. The company supports both early career and mid-career learners in roles related to artificial intelligence, data analysis, and digital adoption.
Gary Eimerman, Chief Learning Officer at Multiverse, says: “The ecda is a brilliant example of how collaboration between public sector organisations can strengthen capabilities and deliver meaningful benefits for local communities. By developing AI skills across both the university and council teams, we’re ultimately improving the efficiency and quality of services delivered to residents and businesses alike. They're setting a great example other local authorities could follow and see similar benefits from.”
