An apprenticeship programme has created 120 opportunities with 28 employers in Northern Ireland.
The scheme from Workplus, which helps employers develop talent through apprenticeships, is now open for applications and it is estimated that almost £8million will be earned by the successful candidates over the period of their apprenticeships, some of which will last up to six years, with the possibility of permanent jobs.
Those successful will take up positions at companies including Farms, Translink, Atkins, Liberty IT, Jacobs and McAdam Design in the autumn to gain on the job training in career areas including engineering, construction, IT, administration and accountancy.
Workplus brings together employers, potential apprentices, colleges and universities to create apprenticeship opportunities and is supported by professional bodies.
Richard Kirk, Director of Workplus, explained: “Many of the young people who are applying for Workplus Apprenticeships are telling us that full time study along with the debt and career uncertainty at the end is not the right route for them.
“Our apprentices get real jobs, good pay with a starting salary between £13,500 to £19,000 depending on entry level, as well as access to training and professional networks that will transform their lives.
“Over the duration of their apprenticeships we estimate that this year’s intake will earn almost £8m in salaries, while avoiding around £750,000 of student debt from course fees which is good news for them, their parents and the wider economy.
“With a Workplus Apprenticeship, employers get bright, focussed and ambitious people who ensure their companies have the skillset needed to remain competitive. We believe that apprenticeships are the future of work and education.”
Apprentices generally work four days a week and spend one day studying at local further education colleges and universities. Apprenticeships are available for applicants of all ages.
People Lead at Jacobs, Fallon Gowland said that working with Workplus had many benefits for the company.
She commented: “Employing apprentices and working with colleges and universities to ensure that they become highly skilled is a great way for us to deal with skill shortages and ultimately support the growth of our individual companies.
“Being a Workplus client also gives us the platform to engage with schools to reach students of all ages and promote our opportunities to teachers and partners as well as supporting our recruitment targets.”
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