The Coders Guild launches 18 month Level 4 AI and Automation Apprenticeship Standard in the UK

Working with Skills England and the Department for Education, digital training provider The Coders Guild has developed the first Level 4 AU and Automation apprenticeship standard. 

The new qualification is part of a wider drive to build a future-ready workforce in the UK as AI adoption accelerates.

The 18 month apprenticeship will allow learners to identify, implement and responsibly manage AI and automation projects. It is available to both employers and learners.

“Our findings show that nearly half of UK microbusinesses, with fewer than ten employees, say they don’t expect to use AI at all - and as a leader in digital skills, it’s concerning,” comments Crispin Read, Founder of The Coders Guild.

“This apprenticeship is about giving SMEs the confidence and capability to adopt AI in a way that really delivers value. For many businesses, especially in traditional industries, AI feels complex or out of reach. But with the right training, you can put someone in your team who not only knows how to use AI effectively but can also train and support other staff.

“The result is efficiency, time saving, and smarter use of data - all of which free up people to focus on higher-value work. Most importantly, it future-proofs your business. AI is moving fast, and SMEs cannot afford to get left behind. This programme gives them a skilled person in-house who can drive that change and help them adapt sustainably.”

The Coders Guild has previously conducted research that found 68 percent of SMEs would like more affordable AI solutions. Companies cited concerns around identifying use cases, costs and a lack of skills as the biggest obstacles to them adopting AI.

The new apprenticeship standard aims to address these concerns, enabling businesses to train staff that can lead on identifying opportunities.