Digital apprenticeship information series

Join The Open University for a series of four short, practical webinars designed to help employers navigate digital apprenticeships and emerging technologies.

Whether you’re growing a small business or managing a large team, these sessions offer clear guidance to help you build digital capability and support your workforce.

Watch webinars

Session 1: Digital apprenticeships – Talent and funding

Learn how Level 4 and Level 6 digital apprenticeships work, what funding is available, and how apprenticeships can help you develop and retain talent. This session covers the essentials for getting started with any provider, introduces The Open University’s offer, and includes real apprentice stories and a Q&A.

Who should watch?

Owners and managers in England and Wales who want to:

  • Grow or retain digital talent
  • Access government apprenticeship funding
  • Build digital capability
  • Understand how apprenticeships operate

Managers in larger organisations can also use this session to refresh their understanding of apprenticeship opportunities.

Session 2: Generative AI and data protection – What organisations need to know

Generative AI is becoming part of everyday work, but its use raises important questions about data protection and organisational risk. This session explains how GenAI aligns with UK data protection requirements and what employers should consider before adopting these tools. It includes practical guidance, common pitfalls, and examples tailored to smaller organisations.

Who should watch?

Owners and managers who want to:

  • Explore the use of generative AI
  • Handle personal or sensitive data responsibly
  • Understand data protection risks and duties
  • Access clear, non‑technical guidance

Managers in larger organisations will also benefit from insights on supporting staff and apprentices to use AI ethically.

Session 3: Recruiting and supporting a digital apprentice

Recruiting an apprentice is a powerful way to build skills, but knowing where to start can feel daunting. This session covers the practical steps: planning the role, navigating recruitment, and putting effective support in place. We share examples of good practice from employers and discuss how apprenticeships can work in small teams.

Who should watch?

Owners and managers who want to:

  • Recruit their first apprentice
  • Understand employer responsibilities
  • Learn how to support an apprentice day to day
  • Gain practical advice grounded in real experience

Line managers in larger organisations will also find this session useful for strengthening their understanding of apprenticeship provision.

Session 4: How digital apprentices learn with The Open University

Understanding how apprentices are taught helps employers better support learning and maximise the value of their investment. This session explores our teaching approach, including the topics covered, how academic study integrates with workplace learning, how assessment works, and what effective employer–provider collaboration looks like. You’ll also hear stories from apprentices about the impact they’ve made.

Who should watch?

Owners and managers who:

  • Currently employ a digital apprentice
  • Want to understand the OU learning model
  • Support apprentices as line managers or mentors
  • Need clarity on teaching and assessment

Managers in larger organisations can also use this session to refresh their understanding of apprenticeship provision.

Ready to get in touch?

The Open University has over 50 years’ experience helping employees learn while they work.

Get in touch to discuss how we can support your skills needs.

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Still exploring your options?

Our Digital Hub brings together tools, insights, and examples to help employers understand their digital skills needs.

Explore the options available and see what could benefit your organisation.

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