BT Global Services UK and the University of Sunderland have developed a Foundation Degree programme designed to offer business-focused, work-based higher education to the telecoms company's employees.

The two-year programme, The Foundation Degree in Sales Account and Relationship Management, is designed specifically around BT competencies and objectives. It will cover a range of skills, from customer account management through to financial planning and management skills.

Kevin Gunn, general manager sales engagement for BT Global Services UK, said: “BT has undergone significant transformation in recent years and recruiting and retaining the best people is vital if we are to maintain this positive momentum. In order to compete on a global level we need to take a more long-term approach to developing the talent within our organisation. I believe that working with the University of Sunderland to create this new course will give us real competitive edge.”

Pauline Wonders, corporate development manager at Sunderland Business School, said: “We have worked in partnership with BT to develop a Foundation Degree that exactly meets the needs of the organisation and its employees. In line with Government policy, work-based learning programmes that are driven by employer needs now form a major element of many organisations’ learning and development strategies, and the demand for courses such as this is likely to increase.

“BT is clearly committed to providing its employees with the support that they need to drive the organisation forward, and have engaged at every level of this development. We believe that it is leading the way in its sector.”

Initially the course is open to employees in BT Global Services UK, the division that delivers networked IT services to major corporate and public sector clients in the UK and internationally.

BT has created a tailored application process for the degree, which is primarily targeted at employees who have not already completed a higher education course. Employees who receive a place will attend monthly workshops, with the majority of the learning being integrated into their day-to-day working activities.