KPMG today welcomed 32 new apprentices to its Business Support Academy scheme following a successful pilot involving 7 apprentices last year. After launching in London, the programme has been extended to offices across the UK, including Manchester, Leeds, Birmingham, Bristol and Glasgow.
Against a backdrop of challenges faced by young people entering the workforce for the first time, KPMG’s Business Support Academy offers 16 – 24 year old apprentices the opportunity to spend 13 months working within various functions across the firm. Apprentices will obtain first hand work experience and exposure to the business whilst completing an Advance Tier 3 NVQ in Business and Administration via the firm’s training partner, BPP Training.
The apprenticeship scheme enables the firm to meet its commitment to help local communities as well as broadening the demographics of the workforce. The Business Support Academy offers an opportunity to school leavers from surrounding communities a fantastic introduction to world of work. At the end of the 13 month scheme, apprentices will be encouraged to apply for available roles at KPMG at the end of their training period.
Tricia Madden, Head of Business Support at KPMG, said: “Secretarial and admin support is vital to the effective running of any organisation. The Business Support Academy is a fantastic opportunity not only for the apprentices themselves, but also for KPMG as a firm to strengthen relationships with our communities. The programme provides us with a unique opportunity to help young people fulfil their potential and succeed in a company that they would not necessarily have had the opportunity to join through conventional means.
“The success of our pilot and the achievements of our apprentices have truly inspired us to expand the intake, both in terms of numbers and geography this year.”