KPMG doubled its apprenticeship hires from six to 12 between 2016 and 2017, mirroring a UK-wide increase in apprentice numbers.

The professional services firm runs a number of training and entry programmes for young people, including KPMG360°, a rotational apprenticeship programme for school and college leavers.

Apprentices ‘rotate’ around different areas in the business, gaining invaluable insights, work experience and professional qualifications along the way, over three to six years.

Catherine Burnet, senior partner at KPMG in Scotland, said: “There are many ways in which KPMG supports entry level recruits in their transition to full time employment. This includes learning and development programmes that broaden skills sets, helping with career path planning, and exposing new joiners to a range of business functions. By focussing on individual goals and skills, we hope to find the perfect fit for our new recruits.”

Ryan Strachan, a 360° Apprentice at KPMG, based at the firm’s office in Glasgow, said: “When I first joined KPMG in 2016, I was excited at the opportunity but also a little nervous, partly because I thought I would be one of the youngest in the office. As it turned out, you get taught by people from all levels of the business, from graduates to directors, and so you really get a sense of the diversity across the workforce, as well as the career opportunities available to you.

“The apprenticeship really stood out when I was looking at options after school, as you get to rotate around the business and learn about the many different professions at KPMG. I enjoy learning on the job, and although I’m only 18 months into my apprenticeship, I already have ambitions to stay at KPMG for the full six-year programme.”

Anna Brown, in her third year as a 360° Apprentice at KPMG in Glasgow, said: “It can be quite daunting becoming an apprentice straight from school, as you see most of your friends heading off to university. I think some people have the wrong idea of apprenticeships, thinking they’re limited to construction-type work, but there are so many options out there now.

“I’ve always enjoyed being hands on, and from day one, you are speaking to clients, which really helps to improve your skills and build your confidence. It’s also really sociable being an apprentice, as you meet so many people across the business during rotations. I am currently working towards my Level 4 AAT, a professional diploma in accounting, and hope to begin studying for my ICAS exams later this year.”