UK Power Networks seeks school leavers and career changers to become apprentices
The countdown has begun in the search for new recruits for UK Power Networks’ popular craft apprenticeship – applicants have until 31 January to apply online to train as electricity cable jointers, overhead linespeople and substation fitters.
Successful candidates gain practical, hands-on skills in top-class training facilities, while shadowing experienced technical teams. Paid to learn, their apprenticeship lasts three years for school or college leavers and two years if they are career changers. There are vacancies for 14 foundation and 17 experienced apprentices this year.
Once the newcomers qualify, they fill essential roles, helping maintain safe and reliable electricity supplies to 20 million people and ensuring the electricity network is ready for increasing demand as the country moves to low carbon electric transport and heating.
Recruits follow the Power Networks Craftsperson (Level 3) Apprenticeship, which combines practical training at training centres in Kent and Suffolk with theoretical knowledge at college, and gain experience working alongside local experts in their trade.
Craft apprentices now also spend a week in the Lake District developing teamwork, resilience, confidence and communication skills key to their future roles. The apprenticeship class of 2025 described their Outward Bound adventures in just one word in this short video:
Charlie Aston, Engineering Trainee Manager at UK Power Networks, said:
“The start of a new year is the perfect time to pursue new career goals. Our apprenticeship programme gives recruits a golden opportunity to learn from experts, work in supportive teams and build a career with purpose.
“Like many of our field staff I began my own career as an apprentice and I’ve seen how our power apprenticeship programme opens doors to lifelong careers and opportunities. We look for team players who put safety first, pride themselves on quality work, and strive to provide the excellent customer service our communities depend on. They should also thrive on physical tasks, outdoor work in varied conditions and creative problem-solving.”
Opportunities on offer
Six of the sought-after positions are within the company’s commercial division, UK Power Networks Services, responsible for building and maintaining private electrical networks for clients in aviation, rail, defence, fleets and a range of industries.
UK Power Networks craft apprenticeship earned national recognition in 2025, winning the Learning Excellence Awards 2025 Outstanding In-House Training Initiative and East of England Regional Apprenticeship and Skills Awards 2025, Regional Highly Commended.
Applicants can find full details and apply through UK Power Networks careers pages. The full selection process includes submitting an online application and CV, an online assessment, recorded audio interview responses, an in-person assessment centre and final interview.
Apprenticeship positions are available in Aldershot, Borehamwood, Brixton, Bury St Edmunds, Cambridge, Camden, Canning Town, Chatham, the Chilterns, Colchester, Crawley/Lewes, Croydon/Kingston, Downham Market, King’s Lynn, Lea Valley, Letchworth, Falconwood, Gatwick, Maidstone/Strood, Norwich, Purfleet, Singlewell, Southend and Wimbledon.
