URL: https://democracy.southend.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1539

Decision Maker: Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Regulatory Services

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: Use of apprenticeship levy funds to support development of digital and data skills across a cohort of council employees, to support modernisation and delivery of strategic aims.

Content: The Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Regulatory Services agrees to:   1. The procurement and award of a three-year contract for the Data and Artificial Intelligence Apprenticeship Academy training, to a value of £866,000 funded by the apprenticeship levy, in accordance with the outcome of the procurement process.    The Digital Transformation Strategy highlights that whilst the Council has a highly skilled digital, data and ICT team, the wider workforce requires upskilling to modernise service delivery across the board. Implementation of Data and AI related apprenticeships are essential to delivering our vision for a digitally confident, future-proof workforce.

Date of Decision: January 16, 2026