Virgin Media O2 has announced plans to provide more than 100 early career and reskilling opportunities over the next 12 months.
The company says the schemes are open to applications of all ages with positions offered as permanent roles. Virgin Media O2 provides starting salaries of at least £22,500, with some up to £35,000, with roles set to become available across the UK, including in London, Reading and Manchester throughout the year.
Roles are available across various schemes including field engineering where apprentices undertake business-critical tasks like upgrading the network and installing customers.
Karen Handley, Head of Future Careers at Virgin Media O2, said: “We believe in unlocking people’s potential and breaking down barriers to working and progressing in this innovative sector. Our apprenticeship programmes provide pathways to meaningful careers at the cutting edge of technology, creating exciting opportunities for everyone.
Virgin Media O2 has taken on over 2,600 apprentices since 2008.
According to research on behalf of the operator, there is an increasingly positive sentiment towards apprenticeships among UK workers. Six in ten (61%) feel more positively about apprenticeships compared to previous years, with over two-thirds (67%) believing there are now more opportunities to undertake apprenticeships. Additionally, three-quarters (75%) of people agree that apprenticeships offer a valuable way to learn new skills and future-proof their careers while earning a salary.
However, despite companies like Virgin Media O2 offering competitive starting salaries and job security, misconceptions remain. Six in ten (62%) believe apprenticeships are poorly paid, with two in five (45%) believing apprenticeships do not offer job security.
