BT Cornwall has taken on five new apprentices as part of a programme run in partnership with Truro and Penwith College, with more to follow.

Based in Truro, they’ll be working in a range of business administration areas including project management, telehealthcare and payroll. The apprenticeships are a one year training programme, combining working for BT Cornwall while achieving a range of nationally recognised qualifications. It’s expected that further apprentices will be recruited in the years ahead.

Peter Wroe, business operations director for BT Cornwall, said: “I’d like to extend a warm welcome to our five new apprentices as they join the BT Cornwall team and start to develop their careers. It’s great to have Truro and Penwith College working with us to offer quality training to complement our vocational development.

“We’re really pleased to continue our investment in the Cornwall economy and to be able to create these exciting roles. We plan to create further apprentice roles over the coming years to offer further opportunities for Cornish residents entering the local workforce.”

One of the five new recruits, Emmi Atkinson, from Camborne, said: “When I saw the application online to become a project manager for BT I applied instantly, as I've always wanted to be part of a project management team and this was the first step. College wasn't for me and I wanted to earn money while learning. Since starting I've already gained a lot of insight and knowledge into the job and what's expected, and it's a great experience."

Tamsyn Harris, head of Truro and Penwith College, said: “As businesses develop and grow and technology changes, new skills are needed within those businesses – which is why we as a college are pleased to be working with BT Cornwall. BT offers a great opportunity for recent students looking to move into their first job. The training will be provided by the College, supporting these new members of the team to grow and develop in their roles and contribute to this important business.”