Professional services firm Ernst & Young has launched a new school leaver programme that will offer more than 60 places available each year.

The five-year training scheme aims to provide an alternative to university.

From September next year, students will join the firm after A-Levels, at one of its offices across the UK. They will benefit from a competitive salary while also studying for a professional qualification.

Applications for the first intake are now open.

Stephen Isherwood, Ernst & Young’s head of graduate recruitment, says: “With rising tuition fees and living costs, students are considering their next move after A-Levels more carefully than they perhaps have done in previous years. University is no longer the default; they are looking at all the options available. 

“Through the launch of this programme we hope that we can contribute to ensuring that young students, from all social and economic backgrounds, are able to reach their career potential.

“Our school leaver programme isn’t going to be right for everyone. But for those candidates who are focused on a career in accountancy, it provides a real alternative to university, with the chance to be paid as you learn. Participants will also get a head start with their careers, qualifying within five years of leaving school; ahead of peers who go to university and then join our three-year graduate training scheme.”