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5 November 2026

Investigation

What apprentices may lose in the great AI efficiency race

AI is transforming how apprentices complete assignments and how providers assess them. But when machines do the thinking on both sides, what happens to learning? Jessica Hill reports in the first of a two-part investigation on automating apprenticeships

Jessica Hill

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For centuries, an apprenticeship has involved more than acquiring information. It means learning from a respected mentor, making mistakes, having those mistakes explained, being challenged and gradually developing the judgment to work independently.

But what happens when the person explaining your mistakes is no longer a person?

Across FE, artificial intelligence is increasingly marking assignments, writing feedback, answering questions and generating teaching materials. It promises instant feedback and relief from repetitive administration – an attractive prospect for financially stretched providers.

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