South West Water creates 20 new apprenticeships

Up to 20 new apprenticeships are now being offered by South West Water as its successful programme is expanded.

The majority of the chosen trainees will be working within the company's waste water and drinking water teams and responsible for operating and maintaining assets such as pumping stations and large treatment works. A further three apprentices will work in the technical services team and will learn how to install, repair and maintain South West Water's electrical and process control systems.

South West Water's Customer Relations Director Monica Read said: "We are looking for talented men and women to join our flexible, mobile and technology-enabled workforce. It is not your typical apprenticeship scheme and successful candidates will be given an opportunity to learn more about how we are protecting and enhancing the environment through our operational processes.

"In 2011, our programme received an exceptional response with over 400 applications from young people across the region for 16 places and we are expecting a similar response this year.

"We are recognised as a top employer by Investors in People thanks to the extensive training we offer and we are committed to providing even more opportunities to support local talent in the future."

Apprentice Joe Farrant, aged 20, from Budleigh Salterton, is currently studying Mechanical Engineering at South Devon College while gaining practical experience at South West Water's workshop in Exeter.

He said: "I've learnt so many skills working here which I would never have thought I would even have the opportunity to try. I've learnt a lot of engineering theory. I can weld, confidently dismantle and re-assemble machinery. I have an understanding of new machinery and how it works. I drive forklifts and use lathes to manufacture objects. But alongside this I've also learnt a lot of life skills and opened my eyes to the world.

"I'd definitely recommend apprenticeships to others as it gives you vital experience. You can go to university or college but you need more than knowledge when given tools and a machine to operate and I am thankful for the guidance and support South West Water is giving me. Apprenticeships give you a chance to learn on the job and it opens up numerous opportunities."

Applications will be accepted until 30 June 2013 through the National Apprenticeship Service website. For more information go to www.apprenticeships.org.uk and enter 'South West Water' in the 'search for vacancies' field.