AN ICT Apprenticeship Scheme to provide participants with the skills needed to take up opportunities in the growing sector is now in its fourth round.
The scheme, involving a number of public sector and private sector organisations, will recruit apprentices to take up various software development and IT infrastructure roles.
Approximately 50 places will be available. Launching the most recent cohort, the Minister for Employment and Learning Stephen Farry said: “I am committed to growing and developing apprenticeship provision in Northern Ireland, creating gold standard provision that will benefit both young people and our economy.
The benefits of apprenticeships are well documented with apprentices able to earn while they learn, develop and practice skills in the work environment, and enhance their future career prospects.
“Developing the skills of our current and future workforce will be essential if we are to continue to grow the ICT sector and ultimately achieve our economic aspirations.
Information and Communication Technology is the driving force of a globally competitive economy, underpinning innovation, competitiveness and long-term prosperity.”
The programme will provide successful applicants with employment in various infrastructure or software development roles in one of the participating companies.
The participating companies will also invest in the training of successful applicants to enable them to gain a Level 3 qualification with the possibility of achieving further qualifications.
Minister Farry added: “This offers industry an important alternative pathway to recruit passionate individuals into the local ICT sector.
Those who are successful will be given the opportunity to develop skills, achieve qualifications and enhance their career prospects while helping employers develop business and grow the Northern Ireland economy.”