Distinction rate at EPA
Ask any provider for their EPA Distinction rate, not just the pass rate. The national average is around 20%. TESS averages 72% across its AI standards.
Honest comparison · Avado alternative
TESS Group vs Avado for AI Apprenticeships
Avado built a strong data-apprenticeship heritage (as Arch Apprenticeships), but it exited government-funded apprenticeships in 2023 and now focuses on Fast Futures bootcamps, professional qualifications and AI software. If an Avado apprenticeship relationship is ending, or you were weighing them up, here's how TESS compares as a current, levy-funded apprenticeship provider.
2026 status: Avado is no longer an approved provider of government-funded apprenticeships (confirmed via the gov.uk find-apprenticeship-training service and FE Week). For a like-for-like, levy-funded AI apprenticeship, the live comparison below is TESS vs other current providers, not Avado's closed funded route.
697 Google reviews · 4.9/5
Ofsted Good · all headline areas
ESFA-registered · ISO 27001
72% AI Distinction rate
How to compare Avado vs. TESS — fair questions to ask
Five things to ask when comparing AI apprenticeship providers — built from the questions employers actually ask us during procurement.
Qualification stack per learner
Some providers include 1 industry-recognised qualification (e.g. AWS or BCS). TESS includes up to 5 inside the apprenticeship — measurable CV upgrade per learner.
Cohort size and intimacy
Large global providers run 60-100 learner cohorts. TESS cohorts run 8-24, with named coach contact. Trade-off: global brand recognition vs. higher-touch experience.
Sector-specific case studies
Both providers run sector-mapped case studies in larger cohorts. Below 8 learners, ask whether case studies are sector-tailored or generic.
Account management cadence
Ask about named account manager, fortnightly progress calls, and exception escalation. TESS publishes a fixed cadence; Avado offers tiered service.
TESS pathways to put on your shortlist
Three TESS pathways to compare against Avado's equivalents.
AI Data Apprenticeship Level 3
A current, levy-funded Level 3 data route. (Avado no longer delivers funded apprenticeships.)
AI & Automation Level 4
A current, levy-funded Level 4 data route. (Avado's funded apprenticeship route has closed.)
AI for Team Leaders Level 4
TESS's people-leader pathway — Avado's strength is more pure-technical. This is where we typically lead on the management side.
Avado vs. TESS — side-by-side
An honest comparison so you can choose the right partner for your apprentices. We've kept this fair — including where Avado is the stronger fit.
| Dimension | Avado | TESS Group |
|---|---|---|
| EPA Distinction rate | Published as overall pass — distinction split varies | 72% on AI/automation |
| Qualifications inside apprenticeship | Typically 1 (e.g. AWS) | Up to 5 (e.g. AWS + BCS + Microsoft + more) |
| Cohort size | Often 40-80+ | Typically 8-24 |
| Ofsted rating | Rated 'Good' (most recent inspection) | Rated 'Good' (all headline areas) |
| Named coach per learner | Tiered by service level | Standard — every learner |
| Sector-tailored case studies | Available at larger cohort sizes | Available from 8 learners |
| UK SME experience | Strong global enterprise focus | Strong SME and mid-market focus |
| Account-management cadence | Tiered | Fortnightly progress calls, fixed |
| Levy non-payer support | Yes (5% co-investment) | Yes (5% co-investment) |
Comparison based on publicly available information at time of publication. Where data is contested or unclear we've defaulted to "varies" — book a call and we'll talk you through specifics for your cohort.
Frequently asked questions
Where would you recommend Avado over TESS?
Avado has strong brand recognition and global reach. Note that since 2023 its delivery is via Fast Futures bootcamps, professional qualifications and AI software, not government-funded apprenticeships, so for a levy-funded apprenticeship specifically it is no longer a like-for-like option.
Where do you think TESS leads?
Outcomes per learner (72% Distinction), the multi-qualification stack inside the apprenticeship, cohort intimacy, and SME/mid-market sensitivity.
Can we run a hybrid?
Yes — we've worked alongside other providers in employer-led cohorts. Talk to us about how this could be structured.
How recent is your Ofsted Good?
All headline areas rated Good at our most recent inspection. The report is on the Ofsted website and we'll send the link with our proposal.
Is the 72% Distinction rate audited?
Yes — those are EPA outcomes recorded by external EPAOs, not self-reported. We share the underlying ESFA submission in proposal stage.
Get an honest, side-by-side proposal
30-minute call. We'll give you a directly-comparable proposal against any other provider on your shortlist, including Avado.
Last updated: 24 May 2026