In the lead up to National Apprenticeship Week (February 7-13), UK Power Networks has opened applications for 20 new apprentices this year.
The Week will shine a light on the benefits that apprenticeships can bring to individuals, employers and to the wider economy. At UK Power Networks 14 new craft apprentices and six higher apprentices will play a key role in the country’s transition to Net Zero, as the company enables communities to use low carbon technologies including electric transport and heating.
The apprentices will be trained in skills that maintain, repair and build electricity networks which deliver safe and reliable power supplies to 8.3 million homes and businesses across the East of England, London and the South East.
All the trainees will spend their time specialising as electrical linespeople, fitters or jointers learning how to safely repair, maintain and connect overhead lines, substations or underground cables.
The practical element of the apprenticeship will be completed at the company’s dedicated training centres in Suffolk and Kent which are rated Good by Ofsted, coupled with on-the-job training with experienced staff, putting new skills into practice under personal supervision. The closing date for applications is 20 February.
Charlie Aston, engineering trainee manager at UK Power Networks, says: “We’ll be excited to welcome the new intake of 20 apprentices. The success of our previous cohorts really demonstrates the benefits of offering apprenticeships and I’m sure our next group will be fantastic assets to our business in future.”
Caden Gardiner, a foundation apprentice who already works at UK Power Networks, comments: “I was looking online for apprenticeships and discovered the UK Power Networks website. I read about people who have worked for the company previously and it interested me. Apprenticeships are a good investment for the company as they train their employees and invest in their future. You also get on-the-job training which you don’t always get at university.”
UK Power Networks is ranked number six in the UK’s Top 25 Best Big Companies to Work For, and a ‘Platinum’ Investor in People.
Apprentices click here to be taken to UKPN
Kick start your career with a UK Power Networks Apprenticeship. Endorsed by E&U Skills, our programme gives you the opportunity to follow a Trailblazer Apprenticeship Framework and become a fully qualified and competent craft person in one of three trades in the electrical industry: cable jointer, overhead lines person and electrical fitter.
The programme is three years long, giving you the qualifications and real life experience required to work on the electricity network.
Qualifications include:
- Level 3 Power Networks Crafts Person Standards in either
- Substation Fitter
- Overhead Lines
- Underground Cables - C&G Level 2 Ceritifcate In Electrical Power - Distribution and Transmission Technical Knowledge 2339 - 17
- Functional Skills in English and maths
Entry requirements
GCSE grades A to D in English, maths, and science & technology, or equivalent. You must demonstrate an interest in engineering and have an enthusiasm to work outdoors.
Benefits include:
- Help when you need it from our training programme team. You’ll also be in line for continuous support from your placement team while undergoing training to help you achieve your goals
- Competitive salary with pay rises when you achieve career milestones and objectives
- You will complete the Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award. This is because UK Power Networks is a Supporting Partner of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
- During a three year programme you’ll face a four-day expedition, a residential activity, voluntary work and develop a physical activity or skill. The skills you hone during this experience, such as teamwork and communication, will be put to good use in your new career
A glimpse into the life of Sammy-Jo, an apprentice electrical fitter
Here’s a glimpse of what it’s like to be an apprentice at UK Power Networks.
Name, role and responsibilities
I’m Sammy-Jo Evans, 19 years old and training to be an electrical fitter at Stansted Airport.
How long have you worked at UK Power Networks?
I started my training in September 2014.
Why did the job appeal to you?
The company offered a good career path and it was something very different and interesting compared to what I did before. Previously I was training to be in musical theatre, so singing, dancing and acting, which is definitely not as dirty and mucky, but I've loved every minute of my new role!
What advice would you give to somebody who is considering a career as an electrical fitter or a career in the power distribution sector?
Being one of the only women in my team and training group, I would say to any woman who’s considering this job to go for it. I've given 110% and proven that women can do this job as well as men. Powering through is how I got here and now I wouldn't have picked any other career for myself!
What do you enjoy the most about your role?
I love the new challenges I face every day and I never ever stop learning something new! Even the guys who have done this job for over 20 years are learning, as new technologies are being brought out.
What can be the most challenging / rewarding element of your role?
It is a good feeling when power is restored on some electrical equipment which we’ve either repaired or maintained. We’re keeping our customers safe because everyone needs electricity. The employees are rewarded well and each employee has an individual performance review with their manager three times a year where they are measured against their personal targets. It’s motivating.
Summarise (in 3 words) what it is like to work at UK Power Networks
Caring, interesting, and rewarding!
WinnerThe JobCrowd Top Companies for Apprentices to work for 2018/19
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