A WARRINGTON firm has been named one of the best employers for apprenticeships in the country.

Umbrella and accountancy firm Caroola Group were ranked 13th in a top 100 list issued by the Department for Education.

The list judge’s businesses across the country on the number of apprentices, diversity among recruits and pass rates.

Caroola jumped impressively from number 50 the year before to number 13 in the list.]

Through its ‘Caroola Academy’, the company employs over 60 apprentices’ in fields such as accountancy, IT, marketing, HR, learning and development, digital design, payroll and business administration. 

Andy Ross, chief executive officer (CEO) at Caroola Group said: “Investing in young people and professionals is essential.

“Currently, 20 per cent of our employees are studying qualifications through our Caroola Academy, and they are the driving force behind our business.

“Since its introduction in 2023, the academy has allowed us to significantly expand our talent pool and nurture our team by supporting their career development and leveraging their skills for collective growth.” 

Since 2017, Caroola has taken on 650+ apprentices and invested over £6.3 million in their training and development. 

Andy continued: “Climbing from number 50 to 13 within 12 months is a remarkable achievement. It reflects the hard work of our team and the success of Caroola Academy, which we will continue to enhance in the coming years to provide valuable training opportunities and qualifications.” 

Caroola Group is the parent company of Caroola Accountancy, Parasol, and BAA Accounting (formerly Brian Alfred).

The company partners with several training providers to deliver its apprenticeship schemes, including Paragon Skills which Caroola has worked with for over six years.    

Mark Botha, CEO at Paragon Skills said: “We are honoured to be working in partnership with Caroola, providing the training for their accountancy apprenticeships and to have played a key role in developing their newly established apprenticeship academy.

“Being recognised as one of the top 15 apprenticeship employers in the UK reflects the success of our collaboration, and we’re excited to continue working closely with Caroola to support their mission of nurturing and advancing top talent.” 

Anyone interested in joining the Caroola Academy can apply by emailing recruitment@caroola.com.