Wealden District Council Launches AI Academy with East Sussex College as Training Partner
Wealden District Council has launched a pioneering AI Academy for its staff, in partnership with East Sussex College Group providing the training, qualifications, expertise and ongoing support. The academy will enable employees to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to use artificial intelligence responsibly, effectively and efficiently in the workplace.
The academy launched on 8th June at the Civic Hall in Hailsham, where 25 council employees enrolled onto the Digital AI Technology Apprenticeship, a programme developed through close collaboration with East Sussex College.
The partnership was established to address the growing need for AI skills across public sector organisations, ensuring staff are prepared to embrace emerging technologies while maintaining high standards of professionalism, ethics and public service.
The apprenticeship programme has been tailored specifically to the council's needs, focusing on the practical application of AI, ethical considerations, digital innovation and building confidence in its use across a range of council services.
East Sussex College’s CEO and Principal Rebecca Conroy, Head of Business Development Vicki Orbell, Computing Lecturer Scott Beeslee, and Ore Valley campus Director Keith Wood, joined council colleagues to mark the launch and introduce learners to the programme.
"Artificial intelligence is already transforming the way organisations operate, and it is essential that workforces are equipped with the skills and understanding to use these technologies responsibly,” said Rebecca Conroy, Principal and CEO of East Sussex College Group. “We are proud to be supporting Wealden District Council with our expertise on this innovative programme, which has been designed around their specific needs and ambitions.”
During the launch event, attendees explored the role of AI in the modern workplace, how organisations are already utilising AI technologies, and the benefits the apprenticeship will bring to both individuals and the wider organisation. Learners were also introduced to the Smart Assessor platform, which will support them throughout their learning journey, before taking part in an open discussion and Q&A session.
Liane Tew, Head of Digital, Revenues & Benefits at Wealden District Council, said: “The Wealden AI Academy is a flagship programme and an ambitious step forward in our digital transformation journey, placing innovation and skills at the forefront of how we operate. Through our partnership with East Sussex College, we are equipping our workforce with the confidence and practical expertise to use AI responsibly and effectively. This is about investing in our people, strengthening regional collaboration, and building a council that is ready to meet the challenges and opportunities of the future, ultimately delivering better, more efficient services for our residents.”
The launch marks a significant step in Wealden District Council's commitment to workforce development and digital transformation. By investing in AI capability across its teams, the council is ensuring staff are equipped with the skills needed to navigate an evolving technological landscape and continue delivering high-quality services to residents.
The programme also demonstrates the value of employer-led curriculum design, with East Sussex College working closely alongside the council to create a learning experience that reflects real organisational challenges and opportunities.
As this cohort begins their apprenticeship journey, the partnership sets an example of how employers and education providers can work together to develop the workforce skills needed for the future.
For East Sussex College, the AI Academy reinforces its role as a trusted training partner, helping employers across the region to develop the skills required to thrive in a rapidly changing digital world.
To find out more about how East Sussex College can support your organisation with digital and AI training, contact our Business Development team at BusinessDEVTeam@escg.ac.uk