Huntress IT, the technology arm of recruitment services company Huntress Group, has opened a training academy for IT graduates looking for a career in recruitment.

The academy will offer a two-week induction into IT recruitment, combining classroom training, theory and practical training such as role-playing. The would-be consultants will then be immersed in a 'live' environment where they make calls to clients and candidates.

According to David Spencer-Percival, managing director of Huntress IT, the course is aimed at making new consultants fully conversant with the role of an IT recruitment consultant so they don't feel overwhelmed when they start.

"Recruitment consultancies, particularly within the IT sector, often struggle with high staff turnover, especially during the first six months from a new recruit's start in the industry," he said.

"With the IT recruitment market becoming increasingly competitive as the sector grows, it is vital for consultants within the industry to have a sound knowledge of the vertical markets they will be working in," he added.

Although the academy is focused on training graduates, it will also provide specific training for more experienced consultants.