Apprenticeship webinar set to open doors in Midlands IT industry

News
30/03/2020

Birmingham-based IT recruitment and solutions company, Crimson, will be opening their apprenticeship application process for the fourth year running. From school leavers to graduates, the scheme is for anyone looking to take the first step in a career using technology to solve business problems. Having originally planned to hold two apprenticeship events, Crimson will now be uploading a webinar on the 2nd April following the governments advice surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic, where they will be discussing the features and benefits of Crimson Academy - the apprenticeship scheme. There will then be a live Q&A session to answer any queries from applicants.


Founded in 2001, Crimson helps large and midsize organisations get the most from their Microsoft cloud investment in the solutions side of the company, while the recruitment services simplify the recruitment process, helping hiring managers find the best contract and permanent IT talent in established and emerging disciplines.


Crimson has recently been named one of the Sunday Times 75 Best Companies to work for in the Midlands, which was voted for by its employees. With team building activities, a positive workplace culture and busy social calendar, there are a whole host of reasons to work for Crimson.


Crimson’s apprenticeship scheme, which is partnered with Digital Native UK, covers Level 4 and above – up to degree level. The programme, which takes four years to complete, is shorter than the average apprenticeship, and can vary depending on the individual’s previous education. While the apprentices will achieve a degree by the end of the program, they also gain priceless industry experience, professional mentorship and additional vendor qualifications from Microsoft.


If these benefits aren’t enough, Crimson offers a highly competitive salary to its apprentices, both during and after completing the scheme. School and college leavers will receive a starting salary of £18,000, while those who have already achieved a degree, or have industry experience, will receive £22,000. Once they have completed their apprenticeship, they can expect to earn in excess of £35,000.


Crimson has been growing its academy year-on-year, taking on four apprentices in 2017/18 and eight apprentices in 2019. This number will increase in 2020 to between eight and ten new apprentices. Crimson is keen to attract a diverse group of apprentices, with a mix of background, experience, skills and gender. Crimson regularly holds ‘Women in IT’ events and is keen to reduce the stigmas surrounding women in STEM industries. The apprentices who joined Crimson in 2019 consists of five male and three females, while all of the apprentices come from different backgrounds and areas.


Cat Halstead, Head of Academy Training, explains why diversity is important to her when selecting apprentices -

“We are really excited to start the search for our 2020 cohort. People drive our business, and we value the differences that each individual brings. Diverse ideas lead to greater creativity and innovation. This, in turn, leads to more engaged employees and a happier and more productive environment.”


The apprenticeship scheme is a great opportunity for school or college leavers to continue their education while earning - but is also ideal for graduates or adults who already have some industry experience and perhaps want to switch to a tech career. Megan Casey began her apprenticeship with Crimson following a degree in Human Geography and Business Management. When asked why she applied for Crimson’s apprenticeship scheme, she explained

“Before Crimson, I was working a 9-5:30 office job where there was little talk about growth and my personal development. I knew that I was capable of more and I wanted a career that could recognise this talent in me and push me in the right direction. Six months into the apprenticeship and I have passed two IT exams, presented to two schools, attended a Women in Tech event, received recognition on my first big project, reviewed one book on a company-wide teams call, built one solution and tested it, attended two customer sites, participated in one team-building event…but most importantly made friends for life. The opportunities here are truly endless.”


Join the live Q&A session at 12pm - 1pm, and 5pm - 6pm on the 2nd April on the Crimson Facebook page.