AXA apprenticeship scheme recognised for boosting youth employment in Glasgow

AXA Business Insurance has been named Employer of the Month by Developing the Young Workforce Glasgow.

DYW Glasgow, which is supported by Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, aims to increase industry links with education and move more young people into work.

The award recognises AXA’s role in piloting Scotland’s first Foundation Apprenticeship in Financial Services, which provides school pupils with flexible work-study placements in its Glasgow office.

The company also invites schoolchildren to take part in study tours, work experience days and careers workshops.

Most recently, AXA has teamed up with the Notre Dame High School for Girls to run classes that teach pupils how maths is applied practically in the world of finance.

Alison McRae, senior director, Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, said: “We are delighted to name AXA Business Insurance as DYW Employer of the Month. We wanted to recognise their commitment to increasing youth employment. They have created a blend of opportunities linking education to employment, the very embodiment of Developing the Young Workforce.”

Amanda Cochrane, who heads AXA’s operations in Glasgow, added: “Apprenticeships are an excellent opportunity for young people to earn while they learn right from the moment they leave school. We are committed to working with schools across the city and providing school-leavers with routes into financial services. The energy, diligence and refreshing ideas they bring are proving hugely inspirational and beneficial to our business too.”

AXA Insurance UK was also recently awarded the Young People Gold Accreditation in recognition of its commitment to young people and also a Public Interest Award from the Chartered Insurance Institute for Promoting the Profession.