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AI Skills Summit 2026: Connected Futures, Friday 23 October 2026, with Activate Learning, Windsor Forest Colleges Group and Jisc

AI Skills Summit: Connected Futures

Activate Apprenticeships News, Events

AI Skills Summit: Connected Futures

Exploring the opportunities, challenges and partnerships shaping the AI economy

📍 Bracknell & Wokingham College

📅 Friday 23 October 2026

🕚 09:00-15:30

Featuring keynote presentations by author Rob May and Peter Swallow MP, panel discussions, breakout sessions and a central vendor marketplace. Breakfast, lunch and refreshments provided.

Through discussion, collaboration and shared insight, The AI Skills Summit will examine the ideas, partnerships and practical actions needed to build a more inclusive, sustainable and future-ready economy. Whether you’re shaping curriculum, driving innovation in your organisation, or supporting communities through change, this is an opportunity to learn from others, share experiences, and help define what comes next.

In partnership with Windsor Forest Colleges Group, Connected Futures is a space for employers and educators to come together to understand the impact of AI, share ideas, and build the relationships that will help communities thrive in the years ahead.

Conference Themes

  • Defining the Skills Needed for an AI Economy – What knowledge, capabilities and human skills will individuals and organisations need to thrive in an AI-enabled world?
  • Building Confidence in AI Adoption – How can we help people and organisations embrace AI with confidence, trust and the right support?
  • Creating Partnerships for AI-Enabled Change – Exploring how education providers, employers and service organisations can work together to unlock opportunity and drive meaningful impact.

Registration, sponsorship and call for contributors

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Progression routes

What happens next? Most people stay on with the employer they train with, but there are plenty of options! You may decide to study a higher-level apprenticeship, return to academic studies, or work full time. We will support you whatever you decide!

The apprenticeship programme

You will have access to a range of support and advice we have on offer. This includes support from Advice and Admissions, Learning Support and Student Support.

You can access all facilities at Activate Learning Colleges and reap benefits, such as student discount. However, you may not be entitled to certain funding and travel bursaries as apprenticeships are paid positions.

How much will I earn?

The amount you’ll earn will vary depending on the nature of your role, sector and business you are working with.

The minimum hourly rate for an apprentice is £8.00, however most apprentices are paid more than this. If you are over 19 and have completed one year, you will be paid national minimum wage. 

You will also be entitled to the same conditions as all other employees in a business, including paid holiday, sick pay and pensions (where requirements are met).

What can I expect from my apprenticeship?

You must be at least 16 years old when you start an apprenticeship.

There are 3 types of apprenticeships depending on your requirements and previous qualifications: day release, work-based and block-release.

Your apprenticeship programme may be assessed with:

  • Practical assessments/exams
  • A portfolio of evidence
  • Interviews and presentations
  • Final assessments
  • On and off the job training

You will have a performance coach visit your workplace every eight weeks as well as an inhouse mentor throughout your apprenticeship.

An apprenticeship typically lasts 24 months, but can vary between 12 months to 5 years.