Data and technology skills are no longer specialist capabilities. They are essential to how modern organisations operate, compete, and grow.

Data and technology apprenticeships help employers build these capabilities through structured training programmes. Designed to combine workplace learning with recognised standards, they support long-term skills development while delivering practical, role-ready expertise.

This guide sets out how apprenticeship training can help employers develop data and technology skills in their organisations, and how Kaplan supports them at every stage of that journey.

Why data and technology skills are now a business priority

Organisations are under pressure to become more data-led. Decision-making increasingly depends on accurate analysis, digital tools, and integrated systems.

At the same time, recruiting experienced data and technology professionals is competitive and costly. External hires can address immediate gaps, but they do not always build long-term internal capability.

Developing existing employees through structured training allows organisations to:

• Build role-specific digital expertise
• Strengthen retention and progression pathways
• Embed data confidence across teams
• Align learning directly to business strategy

For many employers, apprenticeship programmes provide a practical way to achieve this.

What data and technology training options are available to employers?

Apprenticeship programmes offer employer-funded training aligned to nationally recognised standards. They combine structured learning with practical, on-the-job application.

Kaplan delivers a range of data, technology, and digitally focused finance apprenticeships designed specifically with employers in mind.

Data apprenticeships

Data apprenticeships develop the skills needed to collect, analyse, and interpret information to support business decisions.

Programmes typically cover areas such as:

• Data analysis and visualisation
• Reporting and dashboard creation
• Data management and governance
• Statistical techniques
• Business insight and communication

These pathways are suited to organisations looking to strengthen internal reporting capability, improve decision-making processes, or build data literacy across departments.

Explore our data apprenticeship programmes to see the available pathways and entry points.

Technology apprenticeships

Technology apprenticeships focus on the design, development, and maintenance of digital systems and software.

Training is designed to develop practical skills relevant to technology-enabled roles, including:

• Understanding digital systems and tools
• Supporting software and platform use
• Improving processes through technology
• Technical communication and problem-solving

These programmes support organisations that want to invest in digital transformation, platform development, or updating IT infrastructure.

Discover our technology apprenticeships and find out how they could meet your organisation’s technical goals.

ACCA Finance Analyst apprenticeship

The ACCA Finance Analyst apprenticeship combines professional accountancy training with data and digital finance skills.

This pathway integrates:

• Core financial reporting and management accounting
• Data analysis within finance functions
• Digital tools and financial systems
• Commercial insight and business partnering skills

It is designed for finance teams that are becoming increasingly data-driven and digitally enabled.

By combining ACCA content with practical application, the programme supports employers in developing finance professionals who can interpret data, provide insight and contribute strategically.

Learn more about the ACCA Finance Analyst apprenticeship and how it supports modern finance teams.

Who are these programmes designed for?

Kaplan’s data and technology training is designed for employers who want to build capability internally rather than rely solely on external recruitment.

These programmes are particularly suited to:

• Levy-paying employers seeking to maximise apprenticeship funding
• Organisations digitising their finance or operations functions
• Businesses facing skills gaps in data analysis or reporting
• Employers looking to upskill existing staff into more technical roles

Both new recruits and existing employees can enrol, depending on the programme and business need.

How does apprenticeship funding work for employers?

Most of Kaplan’s data and technology programmes are funded through the apprenticeship levy.

Levy-paying employers can use their levy contributions to cover the cost of approved apprenticeship training.

Non-levy employers typically contribute a small percentage of the training cost through the government’s co-investment model, with the remainder funded publicly.

This structure allows organisations to invest in structured training without bearing the full commercial cost of private provision.

Kaplan’s employer team supports organisations in understanding eligibility, funding rules and programme suitability.

Speak to our team to understand how funding would apply to your organisation.

What makes Kaplan a trusted partner for data and technology training?

Choosing a training provider is a long-term decision. Employers need consistency, quality and clear outcomes.

Kaplan supports over 40,000 learners each year across professional education and apprenticeship training. Our programmes are aligned to recognised standards and professional frameworks.

We work directly with employers to:

• Align learning outcomes to business objectives
• Structure small cohorts around operational needs
• Provide progress reporting and performance insights
• Support both learners and line managers throughout the programme

Our focus is not simply course delivery. It is measurable capability development.

What outcomes can employers expect?

Organisations investing in structured data and technology training commonly report:

• Improved internal reporting and analytical capability
• Greater confidence in using digital tools
• Stronger progression routes for technical roles
• Increased retention among trained employees
• Enhanced alignment between learning and business performance

Results depend on implementation and engagement, but apprenticeship programmes are designed to produce practical, workplace-ready skills.

Frequently asked questions

How long do data and technology apprenticeships last?

Most programmes run between 12 and 24 months, depending on the level and pathway. The duration includes structured learning and assessment.

Can existing employees enrol on these programmes?

Yes. Many employers use apprenticeship programmes to upskill current staff into data, technology or digitally focused finance roles.

Are programmes delivered online or in person?

Delivery models vary by programme but typically include live online sessions, supported learning and structured workplace application.

What support do employers receive during the programme?

Employers receive regular progress updates, guidance on workplace requirements and access to support teams who work with both learners and line managers.

How do we choose the right pathway?

The most effective approach is to begin with a discussion about your organisational goals, existing capability and future workforce plans. Kaplan’s employer team can advise on suitable options.

Building long-term digital capability

Developing data and technology skills is not a short-term initiative. It is a strategic investment in how your organisation operates and competes.

Apprenticeship programmes provide a structured, funded route to building that capability internally. With the right provider and clear alignment to business goals, they can deliver measurable and lasting impact.

Explore our full range of data and technology apprenticeship programmes or speak to our employer team to discuss your organisation’s needs.