TWO school leavers have been chosen from more than 500 applicants to start a new apprenticeship with Dorset’s only independent chartered insurance broker.

Poole-based Alan & Thomas chose Lizzey Cull from Poole and Daisy Jackson from Brewham, Somerset, to join the Brokerbility Academy apprenticeship Scheme.

The 12-15 month scheme is a new nationwide programme intended to offer an alternative to university.

It was launched this year by regional independent insurance broking group Brokerbility.

Lizzey, 19, went to Bournemouth School for Girls, while Daisy, 17, went to King Arthur’s Schoool and Strode College.

Both completed psychometric and ability tests before being interviwed by Alan & Thomas human resources director Susan Reeves.

They recently joined 20 fellow apprentices on a two-day induction programme in London.

Lizzey said: “The Brokerbility Academy has provided me with a real opportunity to develop a career in the insurance industry.

“It’s a real alternative to going to university and unlike most apprenticeship programmes has great on-the-job training and continuous assessment, which can help me reach my goals.”

Lizzey and Daisy will start the CII Accredited Apprenticeship programme while working at Alan & Thomas offices in Poole, Gillingham, Dorchester and Frome.