HR business case – Apprenticeship Levy funded, online & part-time
The Level 6 Data Science apprenticeship is a work-based programme designed to develop practical, role-relevant data science capabilities aligned with real operational and commercial challenges.
The programme focuses on applied data science, including forecasting and time-series analysis, statistical modelling, machine learning techniques, data visualisation and decision support.
The apprenticeship bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and business application. Learning is embedded directly into day-to-day work, ensuring that new skills are applied immediately to live forecasting, planning and decision-making activities.
As a result, the programme supports measurable improvements in forecast accuracy, planning robustness and data-driven decision quality, delivering clear operational and commercial value to the business while developing sustainable in-house capability.
In my current role as a Supply Forecast Manager, operational and commercial
decisions are driven by forecast accuracy. A
Level 6 Data Science apprenticeship directly strengthens my
capabilities to deliver measurable improvements in forecasting performance,
stock optimisation and waste reduction.
Through gaining advanced skills in statistics, data modelling, scenario forecasting
and machine learning techniques, forecasting can move beyond reactive planning
toward more predictive and insight-driven decision making.
This supports more robust forecasts, clearer risk visibility, improved inventory
control, reduced waste and stronger service level performance.
Applying advanced statistical and machine learning techniques reduces bias and improves reliability across short- and long-term forecasts.
Data-driven scenario modelling enables clearer risk assessment and stronger support for senior commercial and operational decisions.
This illustrative example demonstrates how forecast accuracy improves over time as more advanced data science techniques are applied. The chart highlights the transition from baseline forecasting toward more reliable, data-driven predictions, supporting better planning decisions, reduced uncertainty and increased confidence in operational and commercial outcomes.
The apprenticeship develops practical, job-relevant data science capabilities directly aligned to forecasting, decision support and operational planning.
Supervised and unsupervised learning techniques to improve demand forecasting, pattern detection and anomaly identification.
Forecasting PredictionTime-series analysis, regression models and uncertainty quantification to improve forecast robustness and transparency.
Time series RiskTranslating complex data into clear dashboards that support senior commercial and operational decision-making.
Power BI DashboardsData preparation, quality management and pipeline design to ensure reliable, scalable forecasting inputs.
Data pipelines AutomationBuilding scenario models to assess commercial and operational risks under different demand and supply conditions.
Scenario planning Decision supportResponsible data usage, model transparency and governance aligned with business and regulatory expectations.
Governance TrustThis section illustrates the uplift in key data science capabilities developed through the Level 6 Data Science apprenticeship. It highlights the progression from current baseline skills toward stronger analytical, technical and decision-support capabilities, enabling more consistent, scalable and data-driven outcomes across the business.
This programme makes direct and efficient use of the Apprenticeship Levy, ensuring compliance while delivering measurable business value.