Asda reports soaring demand for apprenticeship programme

Tue, 30 Aug 2011
 
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Asda has revealed that it has received some 4,000 applications for its apprenticeship schemes over the last three months, up 50 per cent from the same period last year.

The UK’s number two supermarket said school leavers aged 16 to 18 account for around 12.5 per cent of this total, with approximately 500 having signed up to take part in the Asda Skills Academy since its launch in June.

Developed in partnership with vocational education organisation City and Guilds, the apprenticeship programme is part of the retailer's commitment to providing recognised and relevant qualifications for young workers in its stores.

Those that sign up to the scheme can study for GCSE and A-Level equivalent qualifications in various aspects of retail including customer service, merchandising and fresh food .

Asda chief executive Andy Clarke said: "Youth unemployment is on the rise and traditional education routes are becoming less and less affordable for many young people."

"Young people shouldn't be forced to choose between their desire to learn and need to earn - the Asda Skills Academy gives them the opportunity to do both. And as the UK retail sector continues to grow and develop, there are endless opportunities to build a career ."

The Asda Skills Academy apprenticeship scheme is open to all permanent members of staff who have completed their first 12 weeks of training and work at least 16 hours per week.

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