In-Comm Training and
Birmingham City University have secured funding to embark on a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) that will use artificial itelligence (AI) to transform the way apprenticeships and learner journeys are managed. The announcement was made recently and was highlighted as being one of the key projects in the company’s pursuit of operational excellence over the next five years.
Funded by Innovate UK, the focus of the KTP will be on the implementation of an AI-powered Learning Management System (LMS) that will provide real-time data on all aspects of operations at In-Comm Training’s Technical Academies in the Black Country and Telford. This will cover and enhance the learning experience of more than 2,500 apprentices and learners accessing upskilling courses, not to mention engagement with over 700 SMEs and large employers across Birmingham, the Black Country, Telford and in wider Shropshire.
Professor Hanifa Shah, pro-vice-chancellor STEAM and executive dean, Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment at Birmingham City University, said: “We are immensely proud to be moving forward with this exciting KTP and are delighted to be recognised as In-Comm Training's strategic technology partner.
“This partnership reflects our commitment to driving innovation in education and skills, as well as our dedication to supporting learners and employers through advanced technological solutions. The AI-powered Learning Management System (LMS), built from scratch, is a testament to our collaborative efforts with
Innovate UK and will help the business achieve its long-term goal of delivering employer-led skills support.”
Digitalising the classroomGareth Jones, managing director of In-Comm Training, said: "Through our collaboration with BCU, we will embed the AI-powered LMS into the heart of our business. This will enhance the learning experience, digitalising the classroom and work-based elements of the journey. Individuals will have access to digital material and there is now 360deg transparency around progression data, employer involvement and communication.
“The system is designed to deliver for both our internal and external stakeholders, including Ofsted, ESFA and other awarding bodies. Our partnership exemplifies how academia and industry can successfully work together to create solutions that positively benefit both learners and employers.”
The KTP partnership began after In-Comm Training approached BCU with the concept, which was led by the invaluable support of Professor Adel Aneiba, head of college, computing (CEBE), supported by senior lecturer Dr Khalid Ismail. Their combined expertise was crucial in identifying key challenges and designing effective solutions that seamlessly integrated stakeholders and facilitated clear communication. Importantly, it also has the potential to create 10 additional projects at the training provider, which will give university students valuable real-world experience.
Natalie Lewis, head of knowledge transfer and business engagement at BCU, concluded: “We are delighted to be collaborating with In-Comm Training as its strategic technology partner on this KTP project, an achievement that reinforces the vital role the training provider plays in bridging the gap between academia and industry.”
Knowledge Transfer Partnerships is a UK-wide programme that has been helping businesses for the last 49 years to improve their competitiveness and productivity through the better use of knowledge, technology and skills. In a KTP, the university employs the graduate or postgraduate as the associate to work on site with the company, jointly supervised by both parties.