IBM kicks off apprentice scheme in UK

Big Blue looking to take on 20 students and turn them into IT specialists

IBM is launching an apprenticeship scheme with the help of e-skills

IBM has developed its first ever apprenticeship programme in England.

The company is looking to recruit 20 "IT Specialist" apprentices – and is offering roles across the UK for the two-year development programme.

The news comes soon after BT revealed it is extending its own apprenticeship programme due to overwhelming demand, as the number of students studying IT at schools and colleges in the UK continues to fall.

“IT Specialists develop proof of concepts, design, develop, build, test and implement systems to solve our clients' business and IT problems,” said IBM in its job specification for the programme.

“As an IT Specialist you will be a hands-on professional and you will develop an in-depth understanding of our products, offerings and services.”

The company said apprentices may also find themselves working alongside its sales teams, providing technical project knowledge and guidance to support the work that they do with clients.

This qualification consists of an OCR Level 3 Diploma in ICT Professional Competence and an OCR Level 3 Certificate in ICT Systems and Principles.

IBM has been working closely with e-skills to develop the programme, and the IT skills body revealed its commitment to promote apprenticeships throughout the sector.

“IT apprenticeships are a great way of going straight from school into a fast-paced and rewarding sector with excellent career prospects,” said Karen Price, chief executive of e-skills UK.