Jisc has been named in the top 100 apprenticeship employers for 2019/20 –  an index compiled by RateMyApprenticeship.

At a ceremony in central London, Jisc was unveiled at number 24 in the rankings having started its apprenticeship programme in 2017.

The apprenticeship employers’ table 2019/20 is based on reviews of apprentices submitted on RateMyAppenticeship. This year’s index was topped by truck dealer Motus Commercials, while other well-known employers appearing include BAe Systems, BBC and UBS.

Since Jisc recruited its first apprentices in September 2017, 12 people have started apprenticeships across a range of services including project management, business administration and infrastructure.

Another apprentice is expected to be taken on later this year, while all directorates are encouraged to recruit new-entrant apprentices at all levels, including degrees.

Developing strong leaders

Jisc is also looking to offer apprenticeships as a development opportunity for existing employees to help develop strong leaders and great managers.

All organisations with a paybill in excess of £3million must contribute to the apprentice levy. Jisc’s contribution will be used to offer higher level apprenticeships to address skills gaps, reskilling those employees who have moved into leadership positions from more technical roots.

Joanne Stewart, group director for people, Jisc, said:

“We are delighted to hear that we have been ranked 24 in the top 100 apprentice employers by RateMyApprenticeship.

“Just under three-quarters of big firms struggle to find people with digital skills, according to government figures. As the UK’s leading education technology organisation, we feel we have a role in tackling this problem and see apprenticeships as an excellent way of uncovering and developing a new wave of talent for the sector and beyond.

“The tech sector is an exciting and inspiring place to work in and we want it to be seen as inclusive and diverse. Apprenticeships can help by bringing in talented people who otherwise may not have seen technology careers as an option.”

Georgia Stanley, Jisc’s PR and communications apprentice, said:

“This apprenticeship has offered an alternative learning route to university – which works perfectly with my lifestyle as I can learn at my own pace and split my time between working and learning.

“My specialism is PR and communications, but Jisc offers an opportunity to train for a range of professions, including cyber security, legal and strategic support, while getting paid.

“You don’t often see apprenticeships within this sector so Jisc has offered a unique opportunity to start a career in technology.”