Deloitte is currently extending its Micro-Tyco Student Challenge to a second year. Members of successful teams in the challenge, aimed at universities and schools, can earn a placement at Deloitte with view to a permanent role.
Rolls told HR magazine Deloitte is making progress looking beyond academic achievements in recruitment, thus aiding social mobility.
“It’s small steps in the right direction at the moment,” he said. “We’re trying to take a broader view and not look too closely at qualities that are shaped by socio-economic factors.”
Rolls added that while potential employees should have the most basic skills such as literacy and numeracy in place before they apply for Deloitte’s schemes, this may not be the case for all areas of employment. He went on to say that selecting out candidates for academic factors may no longer be an option, especially in industries that rely heavily on skills.
“In a profession that relies so much on talent you just can’t afford to ignore anybody,” he concluded.