Applications are now open for the apprenticeship programme, which is being delivered by QA and will combine high-quality classroom training, together with on-the-job experience.

The successful candidate will be recruited on a permanent role from September, earning up to £18,000 basic salary per year, and will start studying towards a Level 3 Diploma in Digital Marketing within the first three months of joining Specsavers. They will then study towards a bachelor degree in digital marketing, with the aim of graduating in four to five years.

As the largest private employer in Guernsey, Specsavers already offers many career opportunities for A-Level school leavers, which gives young islanders the opportunity to earn as they learn.

However, Digital Optimisation Manager at Specsavers, Luke Norman, said there was a need to develop more local talent within this growing industry. He said: “Digital Marketing’s development since the 1990s has changed the way brands and businesses use technology for marketing of products or services.”

“As digital platforms are increasingly incorporated into marketing plans and everyday life, and as people use digital devices instead of visiting physical shops, digital marketing campaigns are becoming more prevalent and efficient. This is a fantastic opportunity to work towards a degree here in Guernsey while also progressing your career within this developing sector with the island’s largest private employer.”

As part of the apprenticeship, the candidate will spend approximately 15% of their time training at the QA learning centre in Reading, with the remaining 85% being completed at Specsavers support office at La Villiaze. They will receive one-to-one mentoring, as well as form part of a team of marketing professionals who can support with learning. A QA assessor will also be assigned to the apprentice, who will be able to guide and support them through each unit.

To apply for the Digital Marketing Apprenticeship, please visit the Specsavers careers website at jobs.specsavers.co.uk and search support office vacancies. The closing date is Tuesday 15 May 2018.