Yesterday (12 March) the BBC’s academy opened its doors to give young people the chance to hear from inspirational speakers and gain an insight into the opportunities available in IT careers.
The apprentices work mainly for small and medium sized employers (SMEs) in Liverpool, Nottingham, Tamworth and Walsall, but as part of their training programme get to pilot the National Skills Academy for IT Gold Standard Apprenticeship.
This is being designed with employers to help apprentices integrate into the workplace and gain technical and professional skills more quickly.
Through the pilot, apprentices are trialling a variety of unique activities, including events supported by organisations including the BBC.
Speaking at the event was BBC technology controller, Tiffany Hall, (pictured above) who gave the apprentices an insight into the complex technology behind the corporation’s broadcasting, including its live coverage of last year’s nationwide Olympic Torch Relay.
She said: "Apprenticeships are becoming an increasingly important way for technology companies of all sizes to recruit talented young people and give them the skills they need to excel in this fast paced industry.
"We recruit apprentices at the BBC, but through today’s event, we’re also delighted to be helping those who work for smaller employers develop new skills and celebrate their achievements during National Apprenticeship Week."
