purple,
BA,KLM,LH,BMI,BE, etc have used low time but well selected / trained ab initio pilots for many many years, generally they go onto multi sector short haul fleets first before longhaul, I have flown with both ab inito and "modular self improvers / PPL instruction" and generally the ab initio is a "better product". This is simply due to the likes of oxford, KLS etc knowing their trade, ab initio pilots are trained from day one to do the job, the others have proven in the past to be a higher training risk. As time goes on and experience is gained there is little difference between the two.
I believe all oxford cadets will be going to the 737 fleet, a great aircraft to cut your teeth on, multi sector busy days. The 757 is not a great aircraft for low time pilots mainly due to the long sectors and lack of landings and take off. Jet2 have recognised this and are recruiting experienced pilots to the 757.