Third Year Lucky for New IT Apprentices at Northgate Managed Services
22 September 2011
For the third successive year, Northgate Managed Services (Northgate) is offering young people a career development opportunity in Information Technology (IT) through the recruitment of up to 10 apprentices
The announcement reflects the strength of the IT sector and in particular the demand for IT & Telecoms professionals in Northern Ireland which is forecasted to grow by 3.71% in the next decade.
The Northgate IT Apprenticeship Scheme which is supported by the Dept for Employment & Learning has been hugely significant in helping to build a skilled and qualified workforce. Since it was first launched in NI in 2009, the apprentices who have successfully completed the training scheme are now working as full time Northgate employees. Following its success in Northern Ireland, this year the company has extended the scheme across the UK with apprentices now accounting for over 5% of the company's workforce.
The 18-month 'earn while you learn' programme is targeted at school-leavers or those who are by-passing university. In addition to studying for their NVQ (levels 1, 2 and 3) the Apprentices gain hands-on experience across a variety of roles and departments within Northgate, with a permanent job on offer to those who successfully complete the Scheme.
As a huge advocate of the apprenticeship concept, Andy Ross, Northgate Managed Services' Chief Executive is delighted to extend the programme for the third year.
"We work very closely with the education sector in Northern Ireland so it is fitting that we are also helping those leaving school to get a first step up the career ladder. I would actively encourage young people - irrespective of their qualifications and training - to consider this as a viable career option. Working in the ICT sector can be highly dynamic, stimulating, and rewarding and this will be vouched for by many of our employees, a significant percentage of whom do not have degrees but have the determination, drive and ability to succeed.
"I've no doubt that coupled with our graduate recruitment programme, the Northgate Apprenticeship Scheme is forming the backbone of a sustainable and valuable workforce that will not only strengthen our own business but bolster the NI economy as a whole."
As well has having an interest and passion for ICT, anyone interested in applying for the Apprenticeship Scheme must hold GCSEs in Maths and English. Further information is available on http://www.northgatemanagedservices.com/careers/job-search/
