John Lewis is to launch a new technology apprenticeship scheme this year, which will see the firm further expand its IT department.
The aim for the apprenticeship scheme is to train the next generation of IT leaders at John Lewis' head office, where the apprentices will work with the retailer's IT teams.
Further reading
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The scheme lasts 18 months and is supported by training provider QA Apprenticeship. The apprentices will be assigned to project teams within the IT department and will complete Java programming courses as well as on-the-job training. The scheme involves a two-week introduction to retail in which apprentices will work on the shop floor of one of John Lewis' London stores to gain a better understanding of the retail space.
"The technology apprenticeship has long been an ambition of mine since I joined the business in early 2011," said John Lewis' IT director, Paul Coby.
"We're seeing a real skills gap in young people where IT and technology are concerned, and as a keen investor in talent we've recognised that this needs to be addressed as we strive to become a leading omni-channel retailer. We recognise the importance of technological innovation and the apprentices we take on will be crucial in helping us to achieve our goal. Looking ahead, we hope to be able to increase the intake for the following year's scheme," he stated.
Coby had told Computing in January that the company was going to hire an extra 100 IT staff as it continued its drive into an online business.
"There's a lot of business change going on that's enabled by IT, which means that we are looking for top-of-the-range project and programme managers, business analysts and people who will shape and deliver the future," he said.
"I think the demand for retail IT professionals is pretty high at the moment – globally, not just in the UK," he added.
Candidates interested in the 'Level 3' technology apprenticeship scheme should be on course to achieve A to C grades in their A-levels and have a keen interest in technology and the wider retail business, the retailer said.
There are five places available on the 2013/14 programme and successful applicants will join the business in September. Applications open on 20 May and further details can be found here.
