When did you first join the Company as an apprentice?
I joined East Surrey Water, as it was back, then in July 1991 as an apprentice and have worked at the company ever since.
What made you decide to take up your apprenticeship?
My father was an HGV technician and I really enjoyed repairing things with him. So I applied for a motor vehicle maintenance course at Redhill college and they put me in touch with local employers. I went for a number of interviews and settled at the water company.
How long was the apprenticeship and what skills did you learn?
The apprenticeship lasted 3 years, attending college one day a week. During the 3 years I developed my skills, both at college, and in the workplace. I passed each year’s tests and exams, and in my final year I passed with credits to become fully qualified, although you never truly know it all in this trade!
How important has your apprenticeship been to help your career development?
For me, being among the team at work, not only offered me a great place to learn my trade, but also offered me somewhere I felt happy to develop myself as a person. School and the workplace are very different places to experience as a young person. The workplace being only adults, this can be intimidating. I think coming in as an apprentice, and the team supporting me in learning helped me feel comfortable, and built my confidence and really helped the transition from full time education to full time work.
What would you say to others who may be considering taking up an apprenticeship?
Go for it 100%! I have never once regretted taking up my apprenticeship, I look back on it with fond memories. If you have a particular trade or industry that excites or interests you, then taking on apprenticeship in your chosen field will be a great place to start your career.
