GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) is launching a new program that will create apprenticeships in several areas including manufacturing and R&D at the company’s United Kingdom sites. The scheme will commence in August and will offer 40 placements for young people (aged 16–24 years old) in the first intake.

Opportunities will be available in IT, R&D, manufacturing, supply chain management, and artwork design. The apprenticeships will be offered at nine sites: Barnard Castle, GSK House (London), Irvine, Maidenhead, Montrose, Slough, Ulverston, Ware, and Worthing. Depending on the discipline, the roles are expected to last between two and four years. Apprentices may be offered roles within the company at the end of the program.

According to a statement from GSK, the scheme will provide young people with hands-on experience in the life-sciences industry, as well as a base salary and a personalized training plan.

In the statement, John Hayes, the UK’s Skills Minister, said “The government has significantly increased investment in apprenticeships because we know they work for businesses and employees. The unique combination of high-quality training and meaningful work experience they offer helps to build a workforce with the skills our economy needs to grow. I am delighted that GSK are not only hiring new apprentices, but also expanding their program to cover a wide range of new disciplines.”

GSK has several programs in place to attract young talent. In 2011, the company revealed plans to reimburse 100% of uncapped university tuition fees for students recruited under its graduation scheme. This year, the company is also undertaking a ‘Scientists in Sport’ program in partnership with King’s College London (UK), which aims to showcase how science will be used during the upcoming 2012 London Olympic and Paralympic Games and inspire young people to choose scientific careers.

GSK currently employs approximately 15,000 people in the UK.