London estate agency, JOHNS&CO, has launched a new initiative to support young people pursuing a career in estate agency.

The JOHNS&CO Academy gives people the chance to train and learn valuable skills as they take part in a number of courses, ranging from Junior Estate Agent, Housing & Property Management, Customer Service and Recruitment Resource.

Eight recruits have already been earmarked for the inaugural class of 2023 and have now embarked on the training scheme.

At the end of the programme, which lasts between 12 and 18 months depending on the courses, the trainees will gain an industry recognised ARLA qualification, awarded by PropertyMark, and will be considered for a permanent position at JOHNS&CO.

The apprentices will spend time shadowing senior staff members, attending workshops to learn about every aspect of the job and to gain wider knowledge across the board.

The launch of The Academy follows JOHNS&CO’s involvement in the government-led Kickstart scheme, which has seen the agency successfully train 16 young Kickstarters and find permanent positions for many of them, in roles across Marketing, Accounts, Property Management, Sales and Lettings.

Georgie Barraclough, HR and Talent Director at JOHNS&CO, said: “We look forward to welcoming our newest trainees and equipping them with the skills and training they need in order to flourish.”