The BMW Group has announced that it is looking for 200 new apprentices to join its manufacturing and retail operations in the UK this year.

The German-owned business is to take on 30 people at Mini Plant Oxford and five at its Swindon facility this August.

A further 12 apprentices will be recruited at its Hams Hall engine plant in the Midlands.

These 47 apprentices will receive training in areas ranging from finance and logistics to engineering and IT, which will lead to an NVQ Level Three, with the opportunity to progress to degree level.

The other 153 apprentices will work on the retail side of operations, for both the BMW and Mini brands.

Frank Bachmann, managing director (Mini Plant Oxford and Swindon), said: “Investment in young people is a key part of our development strategy for the plants. It is vital to attract the very best young talent to ensure that the business has the right skills for the future. We are delighted to be able to offer young people the chance to join our apprenticeship scheme.”

Skills Minister Nick Boles said: “Apprenticeships make total business sense, while giving people the chance of a high-quality and respected route into employment. That’s why it’s so encouraging to see firms like BMW leading the way in 2015 by committing to more apprenticeships.”

The closing date for applications is 31 January. More details can be found on BMW's web site: www.bmwgroup.com/com/en/careers/school-pupils/apprenticeships