Press Release
New development programme to help organisations build AI and digital skills for business impact
15 Jul 2025
Leading business and financial adviser, Grant Thornton UK and Teesside University today announced the launch of a new skills development programme, which will support organisations in building vital skills in digital, managing change, modelling business processes, data essentials, and leveraging AI to drive measurable improvements.
Co-designed by Grant Thornton and Teesside University as part of an ongoing collaboration between industry experts from each organisation, the ‘AI and Digital Skills for Business Impact’ development programme will support businesses in developing core skills that will help organisations transform their processes, products and services through the application of AI and digital technologies. It is open to organisations of all sizes and will support employees of all stages of seniority and career stage to build vital skills for future success.
The programme is delivered through four modules over twelve months. By the end of the programme participants become:
- Confident and skilled: can demonstrate confident use of data, digital tools and AI to drive immediate business improvements
- Complex problem solvers: can apply critical thinking and analytical techniques to complex business requirements
- Digital leaders: champions a culture of continuous improvement, innovation and learning within your organisation
Ruth Walsh, Partner, Head of Talent Solutions at Grant Thornton UK, said:
“We are excited to announce our new apprenticeship programme, which is specifically designed to empower individuals across a broad spectrum of roles—not just those in traditional tech positions—to learn, understand, and effectively apply AI, digital, and data skills in their everyday work. As AI and digital technologies become increasingly integral to business success, equipping employees with these capabilities is crucial for future-proofing organisations.
“Over a third (37%) of UK employers report their workforce currently lacks the advanced digital skills needed for sustainable growth*, making investment in these areas both a strategic and necessary step. By focusing on practical applications and critical understanding of AI, digital tools, and data, this programme supports businesses in building resilient, adaptable teams capable of driving innovation and long-term success.”
Jo Burgess, Director of Professional Apprenticeships at Teesside University, said:
“Developing skills in AI is increasingly important for those pursuing careers in the digital and data sectors.
“Our Professional Apprenticeship in AI and Digital Skills for Business Impact will equip graduates with the necessary skills in business and transformational change, to ensure they’re confident in using data, digital tools and AI to drive business improvements, and apply critical thinking to complex business requirements.
“By working with Grant Thornton to develop this apprenticeship, we’re helping businesses to ensure their workforce has the advanced digital skills needed for business success and sustainable growth.”
The cost of the programme is £18,000, which as it aligns to the Level 4 Business Analyst apprenticeship, which can be fully funded by Apprenticeship Levy contributions or with 95% Government co-investment, thus at no additional or incremental cost to the organisation.
Anyone interested in applying or learning more about the apprenticeships can visit the Teesside University course website pages.
*Source: Disconnected: Exploring the learning and skills gap, Learning and Work Institute 2021
