º£½ÇÊÓƵ

Defence group BAE Systems has unveiled plans to recruit more than 2,400 apprentices and graduates in 2025, which will see training roles swell to 15% of its º£½ÇÊÓƵ workforce. Next year, the company is set to train a record number of 6,500 young individuals, with its investment in education and skills anticipated to hit £1 billion since the beginning of the decade.

The investment has been channelled primarily into nurturing º£½ÇÊÓƵ apprentices, graduates and experienced employees, as well as on educational outreach initiatives. BAE Systems also celebrated the launch of its third state-of-the-art skills academy in Glasgow this year, complementing its existing facilities in Barrow, Cumbria, and Samlesbury, Lancashire.

Charles Woodburn, group chief executive, said: "As the º£½ÇÊÓƵ’s largest defence company, we rely on the skill and ingenuity of those who deliver our programmes, which is why it’s so crucial we continue to invest in our people.

"With thousands of roles open for application across the length and breadth of the country and our exciting high technology programmes, there has never been a better time to embark on a new career with us."

Defence Secretary John Healey said: "BAE Systems are a leading light in the º£½ÇÊÓƵ defence industry and play a crucial role in keeping the men and women of our armed forces equipped on the front line.

"Defence offers exciting careers and this investment is a vote of confidence in the º£½ÇÊÓƵ as a leader for cutting-edge employment, creating highly skilled jobs across the º£½ÇÊÓƵ.

"National security is the foundation for national stability and growth. Our Defence Industrial Strategy will ensure our defence sector is an engine for jobs and growth, strengthening our security and our economy."

BAE Systems anticipates welcoming nearly 1,300 apprentices next year, primarily based in the North of England, with recruits also joining in the South of England, in Scotland, and in Wales. The firm also intends to recruit over 1,100 graduates and undergraduates.