Virgin Media O2 has celebrated hiring its 1,000th apprentice with the release of a new short film, 1,000 Seconds of Impact, showcasing the transformative power of apprenticeships across the business.
The film features stories from current and former apprentices, highlighting their experiences, ambitions and the opportunities provided by the company’s award-winning early careers programme. The initiative is designed to help people from a wide range of backgrounds develop skills, build confidence and pursue long-term careers in the UK’s tech and telecoms industries.
The company’s 1,000th apprentice, Taylor Allanson, joined earlier this summer as a field technician based in South London.
“It’s amazing to be Virgin Media O2’s 1,000th apprentice – I feel really proud to be part of such an important milestone,” Allanson said. “Since starting, I’ve had the chance to learn new skills on the job, work alongside experienced colleagues, and build confidence in my role. Choosing an apprenticeship has been the right path for me, and I’m excited about the opportunities it will open up for my future.”
The milestone follows the launch of Virgin Media O2’s £1 million Apprenticeship Talent Fund, which allows charities, social enterprises, small businesses and local authorities to access the company’s levy funding. The scheme fully covers training costs for STEM-based apprenticeships, broadening access to opportunities and supporting the development of a diverse future workforce.
Karen Handley, head of future careers at Virgin Media O2, said the milestone demonstrates the power of apprenticeships to change lives: “Our apprentices bring fresh perspectives, ambition and energy to our business, and many have gone on to build inspiring careers with us. This film captures their stories and shines a light on the life-changing impact apprenticeships can have. By investing in early careers and creating opportunities for people from all backgrounds, we’re not only future-proofing our business but also helping to build a more diverse, inclusive and skilled workforce for the years to come.”
Investing in future talent
Virgin Media O2’s commitment to apprenticeships underlines its wider investment in digital skills and inclusion, as the company continues to support the UK’s drive to develop a highly skilled workforce in critical growth sectors.
The company’s early careers programme has won multiple awards for its focus on diversity, inclusion and long-term career development, with apprentices now playing a central role in helping Virgin Media O2 deliver its services across the country.
