Programmes will develop skills needed to respond to future challenges in the NHS, such as new digital tools and use of AI. 

A university has launched new apprenticeship programmes aimed at supporting non-clinical roles across the NHS and wider health and care sector.

Arden, a private university with campuses throughout the UK, has introduced Level 3 and Level 4 courses in business administration, human resources, project management and sustainability, with the first intake planned for November 2026.

The schemes have been launched as healthcare organisations adapt to changes in government apprenticeship funding. The reforms have removed levy funding for some management apprenticeship standards, with the government aiming to focus investment on younger learners and entry-level training.

Arden says the courses have been designed to help health and care organisations build the skills needed to improve services and respond to changing demands on staff, including the use of AI and new digital tools. 

The NHS 10 Year Health Plan, published last year, makes clear that the role of AI within the health service is set to expand, and will be used to reduce administrative workloads, automate routine tasks and support staff with clinical documentation.

Steven Hurst, director of corporate learning at Arden University, says that changes to apprenticeship funding have prompted organisations to reconsider how they invest in staff development.

“Learners will be able to apply their learning directly in the workplace to deliver meaningful organisational impact and help to deliver world-class healthcare across the UK,” he added. 

The change in levy funding has seen the introduction of a new Level 2 admin apprenticeships for under-25s and seven short units in priority areas such as AI, as well as a cash incentive for hiring young apprentices. 

Foundation apprenticeships have also been expanded, as the NHS looks to recruit more young people and develop their skills.