Prime Minister David Cameron welcomed the 700 apprenticeship and 300 graduate jobs that will be created across the UK, in areas such as London, Glasgow, Belfast, Cardiff, Newcastle, Manchester and Leeds.
In addition to the new apprenticeships, BT also today reiterated its commitment to tackling youth unemployment, by providing up to 1,000 vocational training and work experience placements for out of work youngsters in 2015/16.
A number of BT’s apprentices will also begin new Degree Apprenticeships, which start this September, allowing them to complete full Honours degrees, while working. Careers ranging from business analysis to software development and technology consultancy will be available at BT, as part of the new Government and industry-backed scheme, which integrates degree level academic learning with practical on-the-job training.
Welcoming the announcement, Prime Minister, The Rt Hon David Cameron said: “I’m delighted that BT is creating 1,000 new apprenticeships and graduate jobs. Today’s announcement underlines BT’s commitment to training young people and gives them the security of a monthly pay packet and the chance of a better future.
“Backing those who want to work hard and get on with the skills they need to succeed is a key part of our long-term economic plan to secure Britain’s recovery.”
Business Secretary, The Rt Hon Dr Vince Cable, said: “These new apprenticeships from BT will give hundreds of young people and adults the chance to begin a successful career at one of the country’s leading employers.
“Apprenticeships are a fast-track route in to the workplace, and can take you almost anywhere, even offering the chance to gain a degree on the job.”
Gavin Patterson, Chief Executive of BT, said: “The UK’s future as a technology leader hinges on young people getting the skills, support and training they need to create successful careers in science, engineering and IT.
“I’m thrilled that BT will be offering so many opportunities for apprentices, graduates and trainees this year, and that they will start their careers at such an exciting time in the company’s history. These new recruits will have the opportunity to work in fields such as technology research, engineering, IT and TV, helping to create and build the next generation of communications technologies for the UK.”
Clive Selley, Chief Executive of BT Technology, Service & Operations, which will be hiring a large number of the apprentices and graduates, said: “I’m delighted that BT is able to create so many new career opportunities for school and university leavers across the UK. These are exciting times for BT as we make further advances in high speed broadband, mobile, sport and digital television, and our new recruits will be at the heart of the company’s transformation.
“Through apprenticeships, graduate training and our work experience and traineeship programmes, there are a wide range of fantastic routes available for young people to create fulfilling, exciting careers at BT. This includes our new Degree Apprenticeships, which can lead to full Honours degree qualifications.”