A TRAINING provider has launched a North-East apprenticeship scheme with a difference which could transform routes into financial services.

Kaplan Financial is offering accountancy apprenticeship training and hopes to get 1,500 apprentices onto the scheme by 2015.

It is hoped the scheme, which allows young people to gain professional accountancy qualifications while working, will transform apprenticeships in the sector, which employs fewer apprentices than any other industry.

Accountants Tait Walker's two new tax apprentices were the first students to be enrolled onto Kaplan's programme.

Tania Ormston, 19, started an accountancy degree last year but soon realised that the practical experience gained on an apprenticeship would be beneficial, along with the opportunity to earn while she learned.

"I have always wanted to work for an accountancy firm so when I heard about the apprenticeship vacancy I applied immediately," she said.

"Now I'm doing what I've always wanted to do for a really successful business with a good reputation, I'm excited about what the future holds for me."

The scheme is the first to be designed by accountancy employers.

Cassandra Macdonald, head of accountancy and tax apprenticeships at the training firm, said: "These new apprenticeships are a really exciting option for bright young people looking for a credible alternative to university.

"With this route, students could be a fully qualified chartered accountant in just three to four years without the debts most of today's graduates are likely to incur.

"Moreover, as the apprenticeships have been designed by employers, firms can be reassured that their trainees will gain the right mix of skills and experience to be a real asset to their workforce."