APPLE has launched a semi-secret employment programme called Orchard and people are comparing it to a cult recruitment scheme.

The tech giant posted a webpage advertising Orchard, but quickly withdrew it after social media lit up with jokes about the strange scheme.

On Twitter, one man wrote: "This idea is great, but holy s*** is this page ugly. If I apply, can I fix it for Apple?"

Another asked: "Is Apple starting a cult?"

The Apple Orchard scheme appears to be a training programme for people who want to work in marketing.

About 10 jobs are still being advertised  4 art directors, 4 copywriters and 2 strategic planners

Apple said its team would be expected to "kick ass together, panic together and grow together".

It added: "The moment is now. Throw everything you know out of the window. All in. Head first.

"Join the Orchard."

iWas looking for a job: Apple Orchard advert in full

The moment is now. Throw everything you know out the window. All in. Head first. Join the Orchard.

If you're lucky enough to make the cut, expect to surround yourself with like-minded souls who are as terrified and excited as you are. Be part of a hand-picked team with a plethora of talent.

Kick ass together. Panic together. Grow together.

Work alongside the brains of all the iconic work you love from Apple. Watch and learn. Trust your gut. Challenge our ways. Have an impact on everything you touch. Be prepared to stumble and fumble and embarrass yourself.

It will be messy, and it won't be pretty at times, but if you stick together as a team, you'll build a special bond and something truly great will come out of it all. Take it from us. It's the only way.

Does this whole proposal sound crazy to you? Good. We like crazy.

The Orchard scheme is designed for the "mutual learning and growth of the next generation of Apple thinkers and creators".

Anyone "crazy" enough to get a place will  work their way through a curriculum and get mentoring from Apple staff.

"Enrichment opportunities and sessions with leaders of Apple departments outside of marketing will also be available," wrote Mac Rumours.

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