Sam has been an apprentice at BT for a year and is one of those rare talents who is able to programme in 20 different languages. He joined BT with 12 GCSEs and 4 AS levels together with a solid grounding in computer networks, security and construction which was self-taught. Sam turned his back on the university route as he sees no added value in terms of career progression. BT was particularly appealing as being renowned for having one of the best apprenticeship schemes in the UK coupled with the opportunity to explore various career paths.

“To date, the scheme has entailed a one year BTEC course at Yarnfield Park in Staffordshire. This will be followed by a further one to two years NVQ course depending on the modules I select. The apprenticeship has been hugely varied, but I have particularly enjoyed the time I have spent in the planning office as I have been given the opportunity to help plan for future optical fibre network projects. This means that I am often looking several years ahead which adds an extra dimension to the job. I have also spent a significant amount of time working in BT’s labs in Ipswich. This is the epicentre of BT’s research and technology and where innovation is driven throughout the company – there’s nothing more fascinating than gaining a preview of the technology that I will be using in 10-20 year’s time.

In terms of lessons learnt, my role has definitely opened my eyes to the world of work and enabled me to enhance my team working skills. I have also gained further accreditation including several City & Guilds qualifications centred on safety and external working. These are invaluable in my chosen career and something that I wouldn’t have had the opportunity of achieving had I have gone to university.

In the future I hope to be working with the research teams at Adastral Park in Ipswich and helping to shape the way in which we will live and work in the future. If you are considering joining an apprenticeship scheme – grasp it with both hands. You certainly won’t live to regret it.”