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Graduates see training and development as more important than cash, new research suggests.

The poll, for accountants Ernst and Young, found that 44 per cent of respondents rated training opportunities as the most important factor determining their choice of first employer.

Just 18 per cent of those questioned said salary and benefits were their top priority.

Work/life balance was revealed to be the third most important factor determining graduate choices.

Stephen Isherwood, head of graduate recruitment at Ernst and Young, said: "Despite the many concerns students have when thinking about their future employer, it is still critically important for many of them that their new job offers them opportunities to learn - and to develop their own careers.

He continued: "Travel, secondments, variety of projects and a flexible approach to work are all vital to graduates searching for that all important first job.

"Often these are as important as the desire for that first pay cheque."

University leavers don't seem to be as environmentally conscientious as many campaigners might hope.

Just three per cent of respondents cited ethical and environmental considerations as the most important reason for choosing an employer.

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