A combination of increasing tuition fees and the competitive scramble for University places means many school leavers are looking at other options to
develop a career in accountancy.
The ‘big four’ have always invested in their
graduate recruitment programmes; but now they have all introduced new programmes aimed at recruiting school leavers.
These school leaver programmes typically offer students with three A levels, at grade B or above, a five or six year training programme which results in a recognised qualification and no tuition fees. Students also gain practical work experience and receive a salary throughout their training.
Ernst & Young recently introduced their school leaver’s programme. With 60 places currently available for school leavers beginning in September 2012 this represents 10% of their graduate intake.
Experts expect this trend will increase in the future with many students opting for this route rather than the traditional university route.
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