Skip to main content

UK data and technology apprenticeships: programmes, funding and career pathways

two men working on computers on desk

Many people know Kaplan as one of the UK's leading providers of accountancy and financial training. But we also offer a growing range of UK data and technology apprenticeships designed to help organisations develop the digital skills they need to succeed.

Whether you're looking to upskill existing employees or recruit new talent, our programmes combine technical expertise with practical workplace experience. Delivered by industry experts and supported by dedicated coaches, apprentices develop job-ready skills while making an immediate impact in your organisation.

Our UK data and technology apprenticeships at a glance

Kaplan's UK data and technology apprenticeship portfolio helps organisations build the AI, data and digital capabilities needed for the modern workplace. From introducing AI safely across teams to developing advanced data engineering expertise, our programmes combine practical workplace learning with the technical skills employers need today.

Our flagship programmes include:

Programme availability, duration and delivery may vary. See individual programme pages for the latest information.

Why are data and technology skills important for UK employers?

Digital skills have become essential across almost every sector of the UK economy. Organisations increasingly rely on data to make informed decisions, improve efficiency and deliver better customer experiences.

However, many employers continue to face significant skills shortages. According to the Forbes Advisor IT Skills Gap Report, 93% of UK employers reported an IT skills gap, highlighting the growing demand for qualified digital professionals.

Rather than competing for scarce talent, many organisations are choosing to develop their own workforce through apprenticeships, creating sustainable capability that delivers long-term business value.

Which UK data and technology roles can I train for?

Our programmes are designed around real workplace roles, enabling apprentices to develop practical skills they can immediately apply.

Depending on the programme, apprentices may progress into roles including:

  • Data Technician
  • Data Analyst
  • Business Analyst
  • Software Developer
  • Digital Product Manager
  • IT Infrastructure Technician
  • AI and Automation Practitioner

Throughout their apprenticeship, learners work on real business challenges rather than simulated exercises, allowing organisations to benefit from their growing expertise from day one.

Compare our data and technology apprenticeship programmes

ProgrammeLevelDurationBest suited toWhat learners will gain
AI Champion318 monthsTeams beginning their AI journeyLearn how to support the adoption and customisation of AI tools, helping colleagues embrace AI safely and effectively.
Information Communications Technician318 monthsIT support teamsDevelop the skills to diagnose, resolve and prevent ICT issues, helping keep systems running efficiently.
ACCA Finance Analyst318 monthsFinance professionalsBuild data analysis skills using Excel and SQL to improve reporting, forecasting and business decision-making.
Data User318 monthsEmployees who work with dataLearn to collect, interpret and communicate data confidently to support everyday business decisions.
AI and Automation Practitioner418 monthsOrganisations implementing AI and automationDesign intelligent workflows and automation solutions that improve productivity and streamline business processes.
Data Analyst418 monthsAspiring data analystsAnalyse complex datasets using tools including Tableau, Power BI, Python and R to generate actionable business insights.
Business Analyst with AI418 monthsBusiness change professionalsUse AI-powered analysis, predictive analytics and agile methodologies to improve processes and deliver organisational change.
Digital Product Manager422 monthsProduct and digital teamsDevelop the skills to lead digital products from concept to launch using agile delivery, user-centred design and data-driven decision making.
AI-Enabled Data Engineer518 monthsTechnical data professionalsBuild the data infrastructure and engineering capability needed to support AI, analytics and modern cloud-based systems.

Visit each programme page for full details on entry requirements, delivery, qualifications, and any additional learning opportunities, including Generative AI courses and micro-credentials where available.

Why choose Kaplan for your data and technology apprenticeship?

Industry-leading teaching

Our tutors are experienced industry professionals who bring practical expertise into every session.

As one apprentice said:

"My tutor is like a chess master. They're always several steps ahead."

Learning that reflects today's workplace

Our programmes combine technical learning with practical workplace projects, helping apprentices develop skills that immediately benefit their employer.

Trusted partnerships

We work with organisations including Microsoft, BCS and DataCamp to help ensure our programmes reflect current industry standards. Selected programmes also include additional learning opportunities, such as Generative AI training.

Dedicated support

Every apprentice receives support from expert tutors and a dedicated talent coach throughout their programme. Employers also benefit from regular progress reviews, recruitment support and ongoing guidance.

Who can enrol on a UK data and technology apprenticeship?

Eligibility depends on the individual programme, but apprentices will generally need to:

  • Be employed in a suitable role
  • Spend at least 50% of their working hours in England
  • Meet apprenticeship funding eligibility requirements
  • Have employer support throughout the programme

Entry requirements vary by programme, with some requiring previous qualifications or relevant workplace experience.

How are Kaplan's apprenticeships delivered?

Our apprenticeships are designed to fit around work.

Learning typically includes:

  • Live online teaching sessions
  • Independent online learning
  • Practical workplace projects
  • One-to-one coaching
  • Progress reviews
  • Employer reviews

Apprentices apply what they learn directly in their day-to-day role, helping organisations see value throughout the programme rather than waiting until completion.

What commitment is required from employers?

Employers play an important role in supporting apprentice success.

This typically includes:

  • Providing appropriate workplace opportunities
  • Allowing time for off-the-job training
  • Supporting regular progress reviews
  • Working with Kaplan throughout the apprenticeship

Off-the-job training forms part of every apprenticeship and may include online learning, workshops, coaching sessions, project work and other structured development activities completed during paid working hours.

Why choose a UK apprenticeship over traditional recruitment?

Apprenticeships offer organisations a practical way to build long-term capability while addressing immediate skills gaps.

Benefits include:

  • Develop skills in-house rather than competing for scarce digital talent.
  • Create a sustainable talent pipeline by developing employees who understand your organisation.
  • Apply learning immediately through real workplace projects.
  • Improve employee retention by investing in professional development.
  • Access government apprenticeship funding, including levy funding or co-investment where eligible.
  • Build future-ready digital capability across your organisation.

Read more about the benefits in our guide to the return on investment of apprenticeships.

How do employers apply?

  1. Contact our apprenticeship team.
  2. Discuss your workforce needs and skills gaps.
  3. Choose the most suitable programme.
  4. Confirm eligibility and funding.
  5. Enrol your apprentices and begin onboarding.

How do candidates apply?

  1. Explore available apprenticeship opportunities.
  2. Check the programme entry requirements.
  3. Apply for a suitable role.
  4. Complete the employer recruitment process.
  5. Begin your apprenticeship with Kaplan.

FAQs

What data and technology apprenticeships does Kaplan offer?

Kaplan offers apprenticeships covering areas including data analysis, business analysis, software development, digital product management, AI and IT infrastructure. Our portfolio continues to evolve in line with employer demand.

Who can apply for a UK data and technology apprenticeship?

Eligibility depends on the programme, but apprentices are typically employed in a relevant role and meet the apprenticeship funding requirements for England.

How long do data and technology apprenticeships take?

Most programmes take between 18 and 24 months, depending on the apprenticeship standard and level.

Are Kaplan's data and technology apprenticeships delivered online?

Most programmes are delivered online with live teaching, digital learning resources, workplace projects, and ongoing tutor support.

Can existing employees complete an apprenticeship?

Yes. Many employers use apprenticeships to upskill existing staff, helping them develop new technical skills while continuing in their current role.

How are apprentices assessed?

Assessment varies by programme but typically includes workplace projects, portfolios, professional discussions and an end-point assessment.

Are apprenticeships funded?

Many employers can use apprenticeship levy funding to pay for training. Smaller employers may also be eligible for government co-investment, subject to current funding rules.

Why choose Kaplan?

Kaplan combines decades of experience in professional education with expert tutors, dedicated learner support, employer partnerships and programmes designed around real workplace outcomes.

Upskill your workforce

Find out more

Related articles

The three tiers of AI training every organisation needs

The three tiers of AI training every organisation needs

This blog post explores the three tiers of AI training organisations need to build AI capability, improve adoption, and deliver lasting business value.

Kaplan

8 minute read

How financial services can close the skills gap in an AI-driven world

How financial services can close the skills gap in an AI-driven world

This blog post explores how financial services can build future-ready workforces by combining AI adoption with lifelong learning and human skills development.

Kaplan

6 minute read

Why upskilling your existing workforce beats hiring AI experts every time

Why upskilling your existing workforce beats hiring AI experts every time

This blog post explains why upskilling your existing workforce is key to building AI capability, driving adoption and supporting long-term digital transformation.

Kaplan

6 minute read

View all articles