Level 4
14 Months +EPA
Nationally Recognised
Level 4 AI & Automation
HR Manager Pathway
This apprenticeship equips HR Managers and Directors to lead their organisation’s AI transformation, using Microsoft Copilot for M365 and Copilot Studio to automate HR workflows, govern people data responsibly, and deliver measurable productivity gains.
Who Is This Pathway For?
Designed for HR Managers and Directors who are ready to lead their organisation’s adoption of AI in the people function. Ideal for those who manage HR workflows, people data, and change programmes – and want to translate that operational expertise into a structured, deployable AI strategy. Not an introductory programme – this is the framework that formalises your HR leadership and directs it towards real, measurable transformation.
Key Learning Areas
Apprentices build a live AI Transformation Plan across seven modules, using their own organisation’s HR workflows, people data, and AI initiatives as the evidence base throughout. Every module produces real, employer-usable deliverables – from an HR AI opportunity audit in Month 1 to a live change management portfolio at EPA. The programme threads a live HR AI opportunity register (Project Automate) through all seven modules, grounding every business case, process map, and benefits report in real organisational data.
AI Foundations, Business Analysis & Building the Case
Use Microsoft Copilot for M365 on real HR tasks from day one - drafting policies, summarising meetings, writing job descriptions. Launch your HR AI opportunity register, map high-priority HR workflows using BPMN, and build a board-ready ROI business case grounded in your own organisation’s data.
People Data, Governance & Stakeholder Engagement
Audit your HRIS, ATS, and LMS data for AI-readiness and bias risk. Build a practical data governance plan covering GDPR, security, and fairness. Then translate your AI strategy into language every audience understands - boards, unions, employees, and managers - through tailored communications and a structured stakeholder engagement plan.
Requirements, Process Optimisation & Change Leadership
Specify exactly what HR AI tools must do before you commit to them - protecting the organisation in vendor conversations. Redesign real HR workflows with before/after value quantification. Then lead a live AI implementation project: rollout plan, adoption support, benefits tracking framework, and a change portfolio that forms your EPA centrepiece.
Assessment
The apprenticeship concludes with an End-Point Assessment comprising a portfolio of evidence, a professional discussion, and a practical sales presentation, demonstrating the apprentice’s competence against the apprenticeship standard.
Upon successful completion, apprentices will hold a nationally recognized qualification that validates their professional capability and positions them for career progression within sales and business development functions.
Popular questions
What are the entry requirements?
There are no specific qualifications required to apply. This apprenticeship is designed to formalise hands-on industry experience, so your professional background matters more than academic credentials.
How much time will I spend in training vs. working?
You’ll spend at least 20% of your working hours in off-the-job training, which includes workshops, online learning, mentoring, and study time. The remaining 80% is spent applying your skills in the workplace, working as part of the sales team.
What career opportunities will I have after completion?
Completing this pathway positions you for senior roles focused on AI strategy, digital transformation, and operational leadership — within recruitment or in broader business settings. Employers increasingly need people who can bridge the gap between technology and real-world operations, and this qualification signals exactly that.
Is there any cost to me as an apprentice?
As an apprenticeship, funding is available that will cover either 95% or 100% of the costs through the Apprenticeship Levy or government co-investment, depending on your organisation’s size. There is no cost to the learner.
Is it a recognised qualification?
Yes. It’s a nationally recognised Level 4 apprenticeship, mapped to the ST1512 v2.0 standard published by Skills England in December 2025.
What support will I receive during the apprenticeship?
You’ll have regular support from a dedicated tutor or assessor, a workplace mentor, and access to online learning resources. You’ll also receive guidance throughout your End-Point Assessment to ensure you’re fully prepared.
