BAE Systems has announced plans to take on more than 60 apprentices across Scotland in 2019.

The new recruits, including at Scotstoun, will start in September later this year, and complete one of 25 training programmes, which provide the opportunity to study for a recognised qualification while working full time.

Third-year Glasgow engineering apprentice Nicola Scrimgeour said: “After school I went straight to university believing it was the best choice for me.

“After studying for a few years I dropped out of the course as I wasn’t enjoying it.

“I struggled with the way of learning at university, but I had heard about the great apprenticeship programmes that BAE Systems offers, so decided to apply, and haven’t looked back.

“For me, the most rewarding part of the apprenticeship is the on-the-job learning.

“It was great to combine the knowledge that you gain while working with more experienced team members alongside structured learning in a college environment.

“That blend of learning, for me, exceeded that of a higher education and a university environment.”

Charles Woodburn, CEO at BAE Systems, said: “We are proud to be one of the UK’s largest employers of apprentices and our plan to recruit nearly 700 apprentices next year reflects our ongoing commitment to nurturing talent and developing high end skills for the future.”

The majority of BAE Systems’ apprentices train for engineering-related roles and undertake a three to four-year training programme. Afterwards, many progress to study Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.

Of the 700 places available, more than 60 will be available in Scotland.

Closing date for applications is February 28, 2019.