John Lewis has launched its first technology apprenticeship, appointing QA Apprenticeships to deliver the scheme aimed at training the next generation of IT and systems leaders in the business.
The new Technology Apprenticeship is an 18 month Level 3 programme, with the new recruits assigned to one of the retailer’s IT project teams in London, completing a number of Java Programming courses and ongoing work-based training. They will also spend two weeks at the start of the apprenticeship working on the shop floor at one of John Lewis’ London shops to develop a solid understanding of the world of retail and customer service.
On successfully completing the course, the apprentices will be offered permanent positions at John Lewis, becoming Partners and sharing in the business’ benefits and profits. There are five places available on the 2013/2014 Technology Apprenticeship programme and successful applicants will join the business in September.
Helen Camilleri , qualifications manager at John Lewis, said: “Technology apprenticeships have long been a goal for the business. They offer us another way to develop and retain talented, skilled new staff that will contribute the innovation we need to keep delivering the highest standards of service. We chose QA Apprenticeships for their expertise in IT training and flexibility to ensure we are offering the most relevant and valuable programme possible.”
Ben Pike, Director of QA Apprenticeships, comments:
“This partnership is a great result for the UK’s young people as another influential business incorporates apprenticeships into their established recruitment processes. John Lewis is a forward-thinking employer with investment in people at the heart of its growth, and we are delighted to be working with them. This programme shows the power of IT apprenticeships to deliver relevant skills to business and offer career paths in a whole variety of sectors.”
