Higher education institutions
Engage your students to help them develop key employability skills.
Calling FE colleges and apprenticeship providers
FE colleges and apprenticeship providers are invited to take part in an innovative national research programme exploring how learners’ confidence in professional discussions and EPA outcomes can improve with AI.
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About the programme
Can roleplaying with AI improve a learner’s EPA outcomes?
This programme explores the above question in a joint research partnership between NCFE and Bodyswaps. It is fully funded by NCFE’s Assessment Innovation Fund and will involve apprentices qualifying during the 2026-27 academic year. The study will be evaluated by an independent body, WhatWorked Education.
As part of the study, all participating FE colleges and training providers will receive complimentary access to Bodyswaps, the award-winning immersive learning platform allowing learners to practise communication skills through simulated interviews and AI-powered roleplays.
Learners will be able to:
- Practise realistic professional discussions
- Build confidence through repetition
- Receive instant, hyper-personalised feedback
Bodyswaps sessions can be delivered via desktop, mobile, tablet or VR headset.
To learn more, join our upcoming webinar or register your interest here.
Who is eligible?
FE colleges and training providers delivering apprenticeships in the following qualifications are eligible:
- Carpentry & Joinery (Level 2) – including SEND learners
- Light Motor Vehicle Service & Maintenance Technician (Level 3)
If your institution is eligible, you can register your interest here.
Why take part?
Participating in this programme shows your commitment to innovation in delivering apprenticeships, engagement in evidence-based research and investment in learners’ confidence development.
Zero-cost innovation
Access the award-winning Bodyswaps platform, 100% fully funded by NCFE, bringing high-tech training to your training without touching your budget.
Boost EPA success
Give your apprentices a competitive edge with AI roleplays specifically designed to master the Professional Discussion.
Ofsted evidence of excellence
Secure your place in a national research study, providing tangible evidence of "Innovation in Curriculum Delivery" for your next Ofsted inspection.
Accessibility for all learners
With features supporting learners of all abilities, including SEND, this programme ensures every apprentice has tools to succeed in their EPA.
Fill the ‘soft skills’ gap
Many apprentices are technically skilled but struggle with confidence during a Professional Discussion. Fill skills gaps with timely interventions.
What’s involved?
As a participating provider, you will:
- Nominate a delivery lead
- Identify eligible apprentice cohorts
- Deliver Bodyswaps sessions
- Facilitate short in-class surveys
- Participate in light-touch feedback sessions
Please note: As this study is a randomised control trial, learners in the control group will receive access to Bodyswaps after the research period.
What you will receive
- Complimentary access to Bodyswaps for participating cohorts from September to December 2026
- Implementation support and training
- Structured session guides
- Technical onboarding
- Contribution to national research outputs
How to apply
Applications open in early April for waitlist registrants and mid April for everyone else.
To join the waitlist, complete the form below and register your interest.
The waitlist closes on March 15th, 2026.
Providers on the waitlist will be given early access to the application before it opens to the public.
