Multiverse and Microsoft introduce AI-powered apprenticeship for workforce training
Multiverse has partnered with Microsoft to support its “Get On” campaign, which wants to equip one million people with skills for an AI-driven economy by 2025.
As part of this collaboration, Multiverse has launched the AI-Powered Productivity apprenticeship, the UK’s first accredited program to integrate Microsoft 365 Copilot.
The apprenticeship, eligible for funding through the Apprenticeship Levy, focuses on equipping workers with the skills needed to use AI tools effectively, enhancing workplace productivity. Modules include prompt engineering, data privacy, ethical AI use, and measuring AI’s impact on job roles.
Addressing the AI skills gap
Research conducted by Multiverse highlights the need for targeted training. Findings reveal that 51% of workers have received fewer than five hours of training on AI, while 63% of tech leaders cite a lack of workforce readiness as the main barrier to further AI investment.
Darren Hardman, Microsoft UK CEO, emphasized the economic importance of AI upskilling:
“To fully capitalise on AI's economic potential and drive growth, we must equip people with the necessary knowledge and tools. By investing in AI skilling, we not only enhance our own capabilities but also drive innovation and productivity across the entire economy.”
The apprenticeship is designed for professionals at various levels and covers the integration of Microsoft 365 Copilot, a generative AI tool embedded in Microsoft Office applications like Word, Excel, and Teams.
Participants will gain practical knowledge to enhance productivity, navigate data protection regulations, and advocate for AI implementation within their organisations.
Euan Blair, CEO of Multiverse, noted the significance of the initiative:
“We know that Gen AI will unlock a surge of productivity in UK businesses, but it requires a combination of the right tools and the right skills to be successful. That’s why businesses that want to win in the AI age must make a deliberate effort to upskill and reskill workers.”
Expanding access through public funding
Employers can fully fund the apprenticeship using the Apprenticeship Levy, which allocates a percentage of payroll taxes to training initiatives. This makes the program accessible to businesses seeking to enhance their workforce’s AI capabilities without additional financial burden.
Multiverse’s partnership with over 1,500 organisations—including NHS, KPMG, and Capita—has enabled workers to achieve significant productivity improvements. The AI-Powered Productivity apprenticeship joins other programs such as AI for Business Value and Transformative Leadership, expanding Multiverse’s offerings for AI training.
