BT is creating 1,000 new apprenticeships and graduate jobs for young people this year. The new recruits to BT will work in a range of areas, including software development, IT, engineering and digital technology.
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, whil e 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.
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."
A large number of the apprenticeship and graduate intake will be based at BT's research campus Adastral Park, near Ipswich. The research centre is at the forefront of developing the world's future communications networks and services, which includes work on ultrafast broadband.
Clive Selley, Chief Executive of BT Technology, Service & Operations, which will be hiring a large number of the apprentices and graduates, said: "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."