South West Water’s Apprentices Share Their Stories – Could This Be Your Next Career Move?

South West Water is marking National Apprenticeship Week (10th-16th February) by celebrating the apprentices helping to shape its future. With a variety of roles across the company, the water provider is highlighting the real-world experiences of those who have chosen apprenticeships to gain practical skills while earning.

Industry Recognition for Supporting Apprentices

The company’s parent organisation, Pennon, has been awarded Platinum membership of The 5% Club, making it the only business in the UK water sector to achieve this. The 5% Club recognises employers committed to offering strong career opportunities for apprentices and graduates, combining education with hands-on experience.

Sharon Gathercole, Pennon’s People & Culture Director, said:

“We are pleased to be an inclusive place to work that provides fantastic opportunities for those just starting their careers to get their foot in the door. Bringing in new people with fresh ideas through apprenticeships and graduate programs, we want to see those of all ages and backgrounds join our business – helping us continue to be a forward-thinking and diverse organisation.”

Meet Some of South West Water’s Apprentices

As part of the celebration, three apprentices have shared their experiences of working with South West Water, highlighting the variety of career paths available within the water sector.

Saffron Herbert – Group Internal Auditor

Saffron Herbert chose an apprenticeship in finance as a practical learner, preferring to gain hands-on experience over university study. She was drawn to the variety of work experience opportunities available but was surprised by the range of careers within the water industry.

“There really is something for everybody in the water sector, there are so many roles I would never have known existed prior to my apprenticeship.”

Matthew Sluman – Apprentice Engineering Technician

At 31 years old, Matthew Sluman took on an apprenticeship after finding himself between jobs and unsure of his next step. Now, he’s won two awards and credits his supportive managers for making him feel valued.

“There is no such thing as too old to start again and every day is a school day so why not start an apprenticeship and get paid while you learn lots of new life skills.”

Jo Gent – Natural Resources Assistant Project Manager

Through her apprenticeship, Jo Gent has not only developed her knowledge in Operations Management but has also been able to apply it directly in the workplace.

“This has been a massive boost to my confidence and encouraged me to take on more responsibilities than I would have done otherwise.”

Looking for a New Career?

South West Water’s apprenticeship programmes offer opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds. As these apprentices have shown, there are many different paths into the water industry, and an apprenticeship could be the start of a rewarding and varied career.