DEFENCE and technology firm QinetiQ has re-started its apprenticeship programme after almost a decade and is doubling its graduate intake next year.

In some welcome job news by the Malvern company, which has shed several hundred jobs in recent years, Paul Carpenter, group head of resourcing, said the move showed “commitment to Malvern and the wider community.

“QinetiQ is built on people who know how, and a key part of our future strategy is inspiring and investing in the next generation.”

Meanwhile, the new intake of 16 graduate recruits have just been signed up with five joining the cyber security business and 11 joining the force protection and acquisition support businesses.

These graduates, who come from universities across the country, have degrees in subjects ranging from natural sciences, to physics, electronic engineering, maths and business management.

Next year, the company will take on 35 graduates, with five starting in January and the rest in the summer.

This year, QinetiQ has also taken on four apprentices – the first for almost 10 years, and next year will be taking on another five.

Leo Quinn, company chief executive, said: “We provide our customers with impartial advice and services, and our graduate intake is a crucial part of building the next generation to maintain this essential capability requirement.

“We will be recruiting apprentices in the new year for the Malvern site in engineering for security.

“QinetiQ is committed to helping younger employees become the future leaders of tomorrow.”

Harriett Baldwin, MP for West Worcestershire, said while meeting the new intake of graduates this month it was “gratifying to see new jobs in Malvern.”

“This sends a great message to the wider community that QinetiQ is starting to grow again. Nationally, QinetiQ is an important part of our defence and security industry and I look forward to hearing news of more new jobs in Malvern in the coming years.

“I am delighted to be able to welcome a new intake of graduates to Malvern and wish them good luck as they embark on their careers with QinetiQ.”