UK Power Networks’ apprenticeship scheme has been recognised among outstanding employers across the South East at the regional Apprenticeship and Skills Awards 2024.
UK Power Networks was named ‘Large Employer of the Year’ at the South East awards show, held in Woking and run by the Department for Education, and will now progress to the national awards ceremony in London on 27 November.
The Regional Apprenticeship and Skills Awards celebrate outstanding apprentices and employers who are at the heart of the government’s mission to boost skills and extend the ladder of opportunity to all.
Judges looked for employers who delivered an exemplary apprenticeship programme that benefited their organisation and individual apprentices.
The accolade comes soon after UK Power Networks’ apprenticeship programme was named ‘Training Provision of the Year’ at the national Energy & Utility Skills Awards.
Its award-winning technical training schools are training 110 craft apprentices as electricity cable jointers, substation fitters and overhead linespeople.
The teams will keep safe and reliable power supplies flowing to 8.5 million homes and businesses, and enable net zero transition for all.
Eighty-five training staff support the industry newcomers across four specialist training schools at Sundridge and Frant in Kent and Bury St Edmunds and Risby in Suffolk, together with mentors across the business.
Steven Read, UK Power Networks’ trainee programmes manager, said: “Winning this award is an honour among so many successful sectors across the South East.
“It reflects the dedication of our apprentices, our technical training team and the inspiring way our whole business supports our apprentices to excel, driving our company and the sector forward.
“Our comprehensive technical training programmes enable us to develop highly skilled professionals to deliver a reliable power network that supports a sustainable future.
“The continuous improvement in our training methods, evidenced by the exceptional achievements of our apprentices, shows our commitment to home-grown skills and career progression.
“This prestigious award also recognises our broader efforts in inclusivity and innovation. By maintaining high standards of safety, welfare, personal development, behaviour and attitudes, we strive to create an environment where every apprentice can thrive.
“We’re so proud of our apprentices and all our employees who support their progression.”
Pictured: Elizabeth Flegg, employer chair of the South East Apprenticeship Ambassador Network; Allan Allison, QA, sponsor of the ‘Large Apprenticeship Employer of the Year’ award; Steven Read, UK Power Networks’ trainee programmes manager; Lee Perkins, UK Power Networks’ engineering trainees team leader; and awards host Tafadzwa Muchenje.
