A SUCCESSFUL and award winning apprenticeship scheme launched by Worcestershire accountants Ormerod Rutter has reached a five year milestone.

Set up to address a skills shortage across the sector the programme has given invaluable accountancy and IT career opportunities to 38 ambitious young people from across the county since 2012.

The fast-growing firm, which was named medium apprenticeship employer of the year at the 2015 Worcestershire Apprenticeship Awards, is currently seeking eight new recruits to join its accounts, audit and tax departments between July and September this year.

Marketing manager Robin Williams said: “The company is undergoing an exciting phase as it continues to grow to meet the needs of an ever-increasing client base and this scheme gives young people the chance to learn as they earn in a lively working environment.”

Non-graduates, aged between 17 and 25, are encouraged to apply for the roles which will be based at the firm’s offices in Droitwich and Bromsgrove.

Applicants must have six or more GCSEs at grade B or above including English and maths.

Apprentices work towards their Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) qualification over a three year period, attending college in Birmingham.

If successful, they can progress to the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) qualification, which takes four years to complete. Apprentices receive ongoing mentoring and regular appraisals throughout the process.

For more on the scheme email HR@ormerodrutter.co.uk or call 01905 777600.