BT is using virtual reality technology to recruit apprentices

Emma Finamore
11 Apr 2018

The assessment process will include candidates being asked to complete a series of “Crystal Maze” style tasks.

Placeholder — Apprentices are needed in TV production, engineering, customer service and cyber-security.

BT is creating more than 1,300 apprenticeship and graduate jobs, and will use virtual reality as part of the recruitment process.

This will include candidates being asked to complete a series of virtual reality “Crystal Maze” style tasks. BT will assess candidates based on three measures, which comprise analytical skills, how applicants handle change, as well as assessing people’s drive and enthusiasm to get tasks completed.

The company is looking for apprentices and graduates to fill a wide variety of roles, from TV production, engineering, customer service, and in cyber-security to help tackle the growing threat of cyber-crime.

Many of the trainees will be on Higher and Degree Apprenticeship programmes, achieving foundation and full degrees as part of their work at BT, while some graduates will also achieve fully funded qualifications. The schemes are delivered in partnership with local colleges and universities to ensure that apprentices and graduates receive the best education for their area of focus, as well as the hands-on experience and training.

Recruitment will include candidates being asked to complete a series of virtual reality “Crystal Maze” style tasks. BT will assess candidates based on three measures, which comprise analytical skills, how applicants handle change, as well as assessing people’s drive and enthusiasm to get tasks completed.

Theresa May, said: “I welcome this announcement from BT. More high-quality apprenticeships means more young people with the vital skills and training to take advantage of the economic opportunities of the future.

“Our modern Industrial Strategy, in conjunction with business, will help drive developments in fields like Artificial Intelligence and cyber technology – meaning more high-tech jobs and greater prosperity for people across the country.”

Gavin Patterson, chief executive of BT, said: “We’re proud to be leading the industry by investing in training a huge number of people in the digital skills that the UK economy so vitally needs.

“BT has a rich history of innovation, and it’s an incredibly exciting time to be joining the company as we look towards growing our cyber-security business, developing 5G technologies and enhanced TV content.

“Our apprenticeship and graduate scheme will equip people with the skills and on the job training they will need to succeed in the future. I’m looking forward to welcoming all our new recruits into the business.”

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