AI reskilling – how to reskill your team with apprenticeships
In the UK, many businesses lack the AI skills needed to make impactful change. And with a growing skills gap, it’s equally challenging to hire talent with existing AI capabilities.
Apprenticeships offer businesses one of the most cost-effect ways to develop AI skills – through in-demand skills programmes and training funding through the growth and skills levy.
In this guide, we explore the benefits of reskilling employees in AI and why apprenticeships are an effective way to deliver new skills to existing employees for maximum retention and return on investment.
Benefits of employee reskilling
The benefits of employee skills training are substantial. They're both measurable in terms of their effects on culture and company profitability.
The main benefits are:
- More cost-effective recruitment, especially when hiring mid- to senior-level employees
- Higher productivity and innovation driven by improved workflows and fresh perspectives
- Improved staff retention because employees feel more valued by their employers
- Plugging the skills gap and finding people who may be difficult to source in a competitive jobs market
How to reskill employees
Start by identifying the skills your business will need over the next three to five years and assessing where gaps exist within your current workforce. This is becoming increasingly important as AI reshapes job roles and workplace requirements.
Recent research from BusinessLDN found that 50% of London businesses believe their workforce does not currently have all the skills needed in the age of AI, while 78% expect a significant need for advanced digital skills over the next two to five years. With AI adoption accelerating, many organisations are investing in training to close emerging skills gaps.
Once you've identified priority areas, align development opportunities with both employee career goals and business objectives. Apprenticeships can be an effective reskilling route, combining structured learning with practical workplace experience, while mentoring, professional courses and digital learning can provide additional support. Regularly tracking progress and outcomes will help ensure training delivers a strong return on investment.
Why apprenticeships are an effective way to upskill or reskill
Apprenticeships are about way more than trade skills. In 2026, they are more like highly sophisticated training programmes and can often be deployed mid-career to help individuals reach the next level.
For instance, apprenticeships are essential for developing AI skills. AI apprenticeships in England are paving the way for dedicated programmes where employees can spend evenings and weekends learning how to use artificial intelligence and integrate it into business workflows. These programmes often combine rigorous academic work with practical, hands-on application, showing apprentices how these systems actually work in the real world so they can automate processes within businesses and enhance productivity.
Learn more about how apprenticeships work for employers.
Building an AI skilling strategy with apprenticeships
Building an upskilling strategy with your apprentices is easier than you might think. It's essential, of course, to partner with the right training provider.
At the same time, it's critical to target learning in the right capabilities. For example, focusing on AI skills ensures that your business won't be left behind in the future economy.
FAQs
Why do businesses need to upskill?
UK businesses need to upskill their staff due to competition in the UK labour market and rapidly changing technology. In 2026, AI training is more critical than ever.
What is the difference between upskilling and reskilling?
Upskilling teaches employees how they can advance in their existing roles and how artificial intelligence can augment their productivity. By contrast, reskilling is about completely changing a member of staff's job role so that they're ready for a new position in the company.
How do you reskill an existing employee
Start by identifying the skills the employee needs to develop and any gaps between their current capabilities and future business requirements. Apprenticeships can be an effective reskilling route, helping employees gain new skills and qualifications while continuing to work and apply their learning on the job.
How does an employee benefit from reskilling
Reskilling helps employees develop new capabilities, adapt to changing job requirements, and prepare for future career opportunities. It can also improve job satisfaction, confidence and long-term employability.
How can apprenticeships be used for upskilling?
Apprenticeships can help existing employees develop new skills, knowledge and behaviours that enhance their performance in their current role. They provide structured training alongside practical workplace experience, enabling employees to apply their learning while they work.
Is it worth investing in reskilling or upskilling employees?
Yes. Reskilling or upskilling can be a cost-effective way to close skills gaps, improve employee retention, and support business growth without the expense of recruiting new talent. It also helps organisations build the capabilities they need to adapt to changing technologies and market demands.
Why QA apprenticeships
careers accelerated
of top apprentice employers work with us
learner success rate
Let's talk
Start your digital transformation journey today
Contact us today via the form or give us a call.
