A MALVERN tech firm is celebrating joining forces to provide apprenticeships.

Tech firm Payara Services Ltd has signed up for a partnership with the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), who have presented the Malvern based company with funding for its 2020 apprenticeship programme.

With the support of the WMCA, Payara is able to continue its long-standing partnership with Aston University and offer two more individuals a degree apprenticeship in BSc digital and technology solutions.

The educational establishment has worked closely with Payara for many years, ensuring that all apprentices successfully integrate their theoretical knowledge with their on-the-job training.

The successful applicants will get the opportunity to join Payara’s international team of 29 and work with some of the most globally respected Java Developers. After completing the four-and-a-half-year Degree Apprenticeship, a permanent position will be available.

Julia Millidge, HR manager at Payara, said: “Here at Payara, we are dedicated to helping shape the future of the tech industry.

"As professionals within the sector, we can all do our bit to try and close the current skills gap, therefore we have made it our priority to create, train and nurture a number of skilled individuals through Degree Apprenticeships.

"The support given by the West Midlands Combined Authority has not only validated our commitment to growing our own talented pool of individuals but has also shown that they agree with Payara’s overarching goals as a company.”

Consisting of 18 local authorities and three Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs), the WMCA works towards building a healthier, happier, better connected and more prosperous West Midlands.

Each arm within the organisation works on numerous projects, with the aim to move powers from Whitehall to the West Midlands and into the hands of the region’s locally elected politicians.

Mark Smith, executive director of business engagement at Aston University added: “Our relationship with Payara is a prime example of how the university/employer partnership works for degree apprenticeships.

"Not only do they support their employees to become degree apprentices here, but they provide a hands-on learning experience and on-the-job training to support their apprentices’ development, which is a testament to their commitment to shape the next generation of Software Engineers."