KPMG UK is to double its school leaver intake
in 2012. The firm’s six-year school leavers’ programme was launched
earlier this year and includes paid tuition for an accountancy
degree, an accountancy qualification, a job and an annual
salary.
“At a time when many young people, graduates
included, are finding it difficult to gain employment, this
programme represents a credible alternative to mainstream
university education and provides an attractive route into
employment for talented students,” KPMG head of audit Oliver Tant
said.
Over 90 students have places on the scheme so
far. School leavers can choose to study at the University of Durham
or the University of Exeter. From September 2012 applicants will
also have the option of studying at the University of
Birmingham.
KPMG said they are committed to widening
access into the accounting profession. Two-thirds of school leavers
are from state schools or further education colleges compared to
around half of graduates employed by KPMG.
“This KPMG programme provides new
opportunities to enter a rewarding profession for people from a
wide range of backgrounds. It is a great example of industry
investing in the talents of bright young Britons,” secretary of
state for business Vince Cable said.
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