Outsourcing giant Capgemini has increased its apprenticeship uptake and doubled its intake from 98 to 200.

The move comes after the company received an increase in applications from school-leavers after university price rises.

Capgemini has also taken part in the development of the Charter Group which has developed apprenticeship charter detailing skills and standards with other businesses including Accenture, Atos, CSC, Fujitsu, HP, Logica, Siemens and Steria.

Frances Duffy, HR director for Capgemini application services, said: “Apprentices are now vital in widening the pool of IT talent, addressing skills shortages, and helping to ensure that the UK can continue to compete successfully in world markets.”