Defence and aerospace giant BAE Systems is to give 1,700 apprentices and undergraduates the opportunity to get their foot on the career ladder this year.

And dozens of those roles being offered across the UK will be available at its site in Rochester.

The firm says the 25% increase in numbers it is employing will be the largest it has ever offered in a single year.

In Medway, it will offer roles to 17 apprentices, 34 undergraduates and 17 graduates.

Charles Woodburn, BAE's chief executive, said: “Creating high quality employment opportunities for young people across the country ensures we retain the critical capabilities we need to sustain our business for the long-term, while also helping to drive growth across the UK’s regional economies.

“Early careers employees are the foundation of our future and the diversity of skills and experience they bring enables us to continue to innovate and deliver the very best technology and support to our armed forces.”

Apprentices will have the opportunity to study and gain qualifications in a vast range of professions, including electronic systems design, cyber security, software development, aerospace engineering, accountancy and human resources.

The closing date for apprentice applications is February 28.