LDD jumps on apprentice bandwagon

Leeds-based VAR is latest channel firm to start an apprentice scheme

The channel appetite for fresh blood continues to grow, with Leeds-based VAR LDD Group signing its first apprentice.

The fast-growing firm – which intends to recruit another apprentice within the next few months – has partnered with Leeds City College in supporting the Advanced Apprenticeship Framework and has welcomed student Ben Carr to its fold.

A growing number of channel firms, including vendors, resellers and distributors are seeing the benefit of hiring apprentices. LDD joins the likes of Microsoft, Softcat, Trustmarque, Comms-care, Westcoast and ConvergeOne and many more who are all embracing the apprentice revolution.

Carr is an IT advanced apprenticeship network and system support student, and joins LDD as an assistant support technician.

His role will include working within the technical team to resolve any client problems, and get a thorough understanding of products and services offered by LDD.

He will continue to attend college to gain industry recognised qualifications and will have a senior team member as his mentor.

Mandi Iles, group sales director at LDD said: "It is rare that we have the opportunity to take on trainees, but as we wanted to increase business through offering support and maintenance to our customers, we felt the apprenticeship scheme was a great way of giving an opportunity to a candidate who was really looking to build a long-term career in this sector."

LDD also revealed it is planning to further increase its involvement with the scheme.

"I think the apprenticeship scheme is a great opportunity. It has given me the chance to learn new skills in a subject that I'm interested in, and to earn some money at the same time," Carr added.

"This apprenticeship has made all the difference to my career prospects as it gives me time to complete my education while giving me valuable hands-on experience."