Apprentice

Expression of interest for Apprenticeship Opportunities

Register Your Interest

Interested in an Apprenticeship?

Whether you are leaving education, looking to develop new skills, or considering a career change, an apprenticeship could be a great next step.

Our apprenticeships give you the chance to gain hands-on experience, learn from experienced colleagues, work towards recognised qualifications, and build a rewarding career in the energy industry.

By registering your interest, you will join our talent community and may be contacted when suitable apprenticeship opportunities become available.

Please note: This is not an application for a specific vacancy. It is a way to let us know you are interested in future apprenticeship opportunities.

About Our Apprenticeship Opportunities

UK Power Networks distributes electricity to millions of homes and businesses. Our network includes underground cables, overhead lines and electrical equipment that need skilled people to build, maintain and operate them safely.

Programme Structure

The Apprenticeship Programme typically lasts 2 to 3 years and leads to a Level 3 Power Industry Craftsperson Apprenticeship. During this time, apprentices will develop the knowledge, skills, behaviours and practical experience needed within their chosen craft.

Training takes place at UK Power Networks training centres and with external training providers. Some training courses may require overnight stays, and accommodation will be provided where needed.

Apprentices may need to travel between training locations using their own vehicle or public transport. If using a personal vehicle with the appropriate business insurance, travel expenses may be claimed in line with company policy.

Throughout the programme, apprentices will be assessed on their knowledge, skills and behaviours and will be expected to meet key learning milestones.

To complete the apprenticeship, apprentices must successfully pass an End Point Assessment (EPA), which assesses their knowledge, skills and behaviours against the apprenticeship standard. Apprentices may also achieve additional craft-specific competency certifications during their training.

Training and Travel

Training may take place at training centres, educational facilities and operational locations across the UK. Apprentices should be prepared to travel outside of their local area when required. This may involve overnight stays for several days or, in some cases, several weeks at a time, with apprentices typically returning home at weekends.

Craft roles available:

Cable Jointer: Cable Jointers install, connect and repair underground electricity cables. This hands-on role helps keep power flowing safely and reliably to homes and businesses.

Overhead Linesperson: Overhead Linespeople install, maintain and repair overhead power lines and poles. This role involves working outdoors, often at height, to help restore and maintain electricity supplies safely.

Electrical Fitter: Electrical Fitters install, maintain and repair electrical equipment in substations. They work with equipment such as transformers, circuit breakers and switchgear to support a safe and reliable electricity network.

Who We're Looking For

Our apprenticeship programmes are designed for individuals at different stages of their career journey. Whether you're starting out through a Foundation Apprenticeship or looking for a new direction through an Experienced Apprenticeship, we'll provide the training and support needed to help you succeed.

To be considered for future opportunities, you should:

• Have a minimum of GCSE Grade 3 (D) or equivalent in English and Maths, or a Functional Skills qualification at Level 1 or 2.
• Be willing to learn, develop new skills and work as part of a team.
• Have a positive approach to health, safety and customer service.
• Enjoy practical, hands-on work and problem solving.
• Be comfortable working outdoors in a variety of weather conditions.
• Hold a full UK driving licence, or be working towards obtaining one, as travel may be required during the apprenticeship.

Foundation Apprenticeships:

Our Foundation Apprenticeships are suitable for individuals who are starting their career journey and looking to gain practical skills, workplace experience and recognised qualifications.

No previous industry experience is required, as you'll be taught the knowledge and skills needed to perform your role safely and effectively.

Experienced Apprenticeships:

Our Experienced Apprenticeships are aimed at individuals looking to change careers or build on existing practical experience.

You may have gained a Level 2 qualification or above in an engineering, technical, trade, craft or hands-on subject, or have experience in a role requiring practical skills and manual dexterity. Examples could include:

• Electrician
• Carpenter
• Builder
• Mechanical Fitter
• Welder
• Vehicle Mechanic
• Telecommunications Technician
• Gas, Water or Utility Technician
• Other practical or craft-based roles

Some apprenticeship opportunities may involve practical assessments, the use of hand tools, working outdoors and, for certain roles, working safely at height.

Why Consider an Apprenticeship?

Our apprenticeships are designed to help you:

• Gain real workplace experience.
• Learn from experienced colleagues.
• Develop technical and professional skills.
• Achieve recognised qualifications.
• Build confidence and future career opportunities.
• Make a meaningful contribution to the communities we serve.

How to Register Your Interest

If you would like to be considered for future apprenticeship opportunities, please click “apply” and complete the registration form. Please note that this is not an application for a specific apprenticeship; we will contact you when suitable opportunities become available

Health & Safety Responsibilities

Managers and supervisors carry both legal and company responsibilities for ensuring the health and safety of their employees, those under their control and those who might be affected by the work undertaken, i.e. public, visitors and employees of other organisations. This includes briefing individuals working for them and ensuring there is the necessary understanding, competence and application of requirements to work safely and without harming the environment.

 Employees will ensure they understand the health and safety risks involved in their work activities and their responsibility to apply the controls needed to manage those risks to acceptable levels. Similarly, where work activities can have an adverse impact upon the environment, and where there are legal requirements, employees will understand those impacts and the controls they must ensure are applied.

If in doubt, ask.

Data Protection:

Data held by UK Power Networks will be stored, processed and monitored by authorised personnel. The information you supply will be used by the Skills Funding Agency, an executive agency of the Department for Education (DfE), to issue you with a Unique Learner Number (ULN), and to create your Personal Learning Record. For more information about how your information is processed and shared refer to the Extended Privacy Notice available on Gov.UK. It will not be disclosed to any other third-party unlawfully following the Data Protection Act 1998.

We’re committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels welcome, valued and able to be themselves. We encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. If you meet the essential criteria and believe your skills, experience or transferable strengths could make you a great fit for the role, we’d love to hear from you. If you need any adjustments or support during the recruitment process, please let us know and we’ll be happy to help.