Outsourcing firm Capgemini is on the hunt for more UK apprentices after raising its planned intake figure for 2012 from 98 to 200.
After reporting a surge in applications,mostly from school leavers looking for an alternative to university,Capgemini will take on 200 apprentices by the end of the year.
The company recruited 26 apprentices in 2011.It plans to recruit a further 230 in 2013.
Capgemini's apprenticeship scheme is split into two areas:a 12-month Advanced Apprenticeship programme aimed at those aged 16-plus with good GCSEs;and a five-year Higher Apprenticeship programme for people aged 18-plus with good A-levels.
Both programmes offer the opportunity to gain a degree funded by Capgemini,with a day release for college attendance.
The company is searching for apprentices to work in London,Birmingham,Manchester,Glasgow,Swansea,Telford,and a number of other UK offices.
Frances Duffy,human resources director for Capgemini application services,said:"Reports from our managers and clients comment in glowing terms on the enthusiasm,commitment and fresh perspectives offered by our apprentices,so I am delighted to announce this further expansion in our apprenticeship programme.
"Apprentices are now vital in widening the pool of IT talent,addressing skills shortages,and helping to ensure that the UK can continue to compete successfully in world markets."
Earlier this year,Capgemini was involved with developing a new charter for the employment of apprentices.Working with eight other companies,Accenture,Atos,CSC,Fujitsu,HP,Logica,Siemens and Steria,the companies formed the Charter Group.
Supported by e-skills UK,the British Computer Society and Business in the Community,the nine firms defined six roles specific to apprenticeships and agreed on matters such as entry qualifications,pay scales,training requirements,timescales,standards and routes for students to achieve a professionally qualified status.
