A pilot training scheme launched last year by the Kingdom Group to offer young people the chance to start their careers with a housing association has been so successful it is to be repeated this year.

Kingdom has announced that it will be recruiting a further four trainees for posts within its Housing, Information and Communication Technology, Technical Service and Property Maintenance departments.

The departments will each take on a young person for three years (four years in the case of the painting apprenticeship) to gain the skills, experience, knowledge and qualifications to work in that field. Each trainee will go through a programme of learning both in the workplace and at college after which they will be well placed to develop a career in their chosen field.

Bill Banks, Kingdom Group chief executive, said: “Last year was our first year of taking on trainees other than trades apprentices and it’s worked very well so we’re really excited about offering more opportunities this year.”

Bill added: “We are finding recruitment of experienced officers within the sector is becoming increasing more difficult and the trainee programme not only provides career opportunities for young people, it allows us to consider our succession planning arrangements as part of our learning and development approach.”

Andrew Latto, Kingdom’s head of human resources, said: “We’re very proud of our trainee scheme and believe we’re offering a real alternative to the university route into work for young people. If you are (or know) a young person aged 16-24 who might be interested in pursuing a career in Housing, ICT or Property Maintenance, we might be able to offer you an opportunity to earn a good wage whilst getting a great start to your career.”

Michael Mayes was recruited as part of Kingdom’s 2016 trainee programme as a Finance Trainee and as part of the 3 year programme, he is studying to become a member of the Association of Accounting Technicians.

He said: “The trainee programme has allowed me to combine a qualification that will enable me to become a member of AAT with vital on the job experience and training. The programme has enhanced my skills and confidence, while putting me on the path to achieving my goals. The Kingdom Housing Association trainee programme allows young people the opportunity to get the vital experience required for future employment.”

If you would like to express an interest in any of the trainee posts please email recruitment@kingdomhousing.org.uk or click here for more information.