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Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Automation Practitioner

Level 4

Velocity Academy 2025-26 Prospectus header image of a phone and laptop on a table in front of a man's hands
Length of course
12 Months
EPAO
1st for EPA Logo

The Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Automation Practitioner apprenticeship develops practical automation and AI skills using industry‑leading tools. Apprentices learn to design and build workflows in Zapier and n8n, integrating systems, transforming data, and creating reliable multi‑step automations. They build strong AI capability through Microsoft Copilot, Gemini, and OpenAI, using them to generate content, structure information, and create intelligent assistants. The programme also includes an elective module in Power Automate, enabling learners to extend automation into the Microsoft ecosystem. Across the curriculum, apprentices gain hands‑on experience, real‑world problem‑solving skills, and the confidence to deliver automation and AI solutions that add measurable value.

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BUD LMS Platform

Your progress will be continually assessed using our online programme management system, Bud. Here, you will upload work and log your OTJ hours.
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Classes

Online live classes to attend during this apprenticeship. Hosted through our highly rated teaching environment by Ofsted.
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Codecademy Access

Free access to Codecademy for 1000′ s of coding courses, practical exercises and projects to study on-demand during your apprenticeship training.
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LinkedIn Learning​

Free access to LinkedIn Learning for over 13,000 on-demand, online courses during your apprenticeship training.
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Personal Development​

Access to our highly rated Personal Development Learning Path to develop the apprentice’s soft skills during their apprenticeship training.
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Portfolio Submissions​

This apprenticeship is formatively assessed through portfolio submissions throughout the practical training period.

Skills gained during this apprenticeship

  • Automation Foundations
  • Triggers, actions, and multi‑step logic
  • When to automate vs. when not to
  • Zapier Essentials
  • n8n Fundamentals
  • API & Integration Skills
  • Prompt Engineering Foundations
  • AI Assistants for Knowledge Work
  • Microsoft Copilot in M365
  • Gemini for Structured Tasks
  • OpenAI & API‑Driven Assistants
  • Responsible Use of AI Assistants

Learning Journey

Module 1

This module equips learners with the knowledge and skills to strategically adopt, implement and govern AI and automation within organisations. Learners will explore the social, ethical, legal and economic implications of AI, while developing an understanding of AI and automation systems, their capabilities, limitations and risks.

Topics Covered

  • AI’s Impact and the Human Role
  • AI Models, Design and Real-World Impact
  • Legal, Ethical and Responsible AI Practice
  • Leadership and Informed Decision-Making
  • Project and Change Management Essentials
  • Collaborative and Insight-Driven AI Deployment
Live Classes: 4 Sessions

Module 2

This module develops learners’ ability to identify, evaluate and implement AI and automation opportunities that improve organisational productivity and efficiency. Learners will explore existing, evolving and emerging technologies, sector trends, workflow analysis and process mapping techniques to understand where AI can create value.

Topics Covered

  • Existing, Evolving and Emerging Technologies, and Sector Trends
  • Mapping Workflows to Identify Productivity Opportunities
  • Using Computational Analysis to Drive Organisational Improvement
  • Security Policies, Procedures and Governance
  • Sustainable Design for AI and Automation
Live Classes: 3 Sessions

Module 3

This module equips learners with the skills to design and implement AI and automation solutions that meet user and business needs. Learners will explore prompting techniques, product development processes, collaborative working and ethical design principles.

Topics Covered

  • Prompts for AI Tools
  • Working Together Across the Product Lifecycle
  • Human-Centred Design Aligned to Business Needs
  • On-Premises, Cloud-Based and Third-Party Solutions
  • Integrated Digital Tools for Data and Automation
Live Classes: 3 Sessions

Module 4

This module develops learners’ ability to support the continuous improvement of AI and automation solutions through testing, evaluation and iterative development. Learners will explore approaches to incremental change, assessing solution viability and refining systems based on feedback and performance data.

Topics Covered

  • Iterative Improvement Through Testing and Feedback
  • Solution Viability
  • Supporting Automation with Insight-Led Decisions
Live Classes: 1 Sessions

Module 5

This module equips learners with the knowledge and skills to monitor, evaluate and assure AI and automation solutions after deployment. Learners will explore governance frameworks, regulatory requirements and assurance activities that support the responsible use of AI. The module covers identifying and mitigating risks such as algorithmic bias, errors and unintended impacts, while assessing effects on workforce equality and organisational outcomes.

Topics Covered

  • Post Deployment Mitigation Strategies
  • Error and Algorithmic Bias
  • Governance, Regulation and Mitigation Strategies
  • Long-Term Assurance for Safe, Responsible AI Systems
Live Classes: 1 Sessions

Module 6

This module develops learners’ ability to communicate AI and automation concepts effectively to a wide range of stakeholders, including non-technical audiences. Learners will explore approaches to delivering training, developing clear and accessible resources, and supporting the adoption of AI solutions across organisations.

Topics Covered

  • Resource Development for Collaborative, Inclusive Training
  • Inclusive Communication and Adapted Resources
Live Classes: 1 Sessions

End Point Assessment
(TBC)

At the end of your apprenticeship, you’ll complete an End‑Point Assessment (EPA). This is like your final set of tests to show you can do the job. It’s independent, meaning someone outside your training provider will assess you.

Project with Report
• You’ll complete a real or simulated project using AI/automation tools.
• You’ll write up what you did, why you did it, and the results.
• This shows you can apply your skills to solve workplace problems.

 

You will then complete one of the below assessments in addition:

  • Presentation
  • Simulated task
  • Professional discussion
  • Portfolio

Apprentices may be assessed at any appropriate point during their apprenticeship programme for this standard.

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