Foundation Apprenticeship

UK Power Networks (Operations) Ltd; Gatwick; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading energy company is offering the 2026 Foundation Apprentice Programme in Gatwick. This three-year apprenticeship trains individuals in Electrical Power Engineering across roles like Cable Jointer and Electrical Fitter. The program provides valuable qualifications, on-job experience, and generous benefits such as health insurance and 25 days’ annual leave. Ideal candidates are school leavers eager to learn and work safely in various outdoor conditions. Join a team dedicated to powering the future while building your career.

Benefits

25 days annual leave

Private health insurance

Pension plan with 10% employer contribution

Travel expenses covered during training

Access to occupational health services

Qualifications

• School leavers with GCSEs in English and Maths.
• Enjoy working in a team and learning hands-on.
• Strong understanding of safety protocols.

Responsibilities

• Focus on specialized training for Electrical Fitter, Overhead Lines person, or Cable Jointer.
• Earn Level 3 Power Industry Crafts person Apprenticeship Standards.
• Work with a supportive team following safety standards.

Skills

Team player

Safety awareness

Manual dexterity

Education

GCSEs in English and Maths (or equivalent)

Job description

Join the 2026 Foundation Apprentice Programme at UK Power Networks!

Are you ready to launch your career in the dynamic world of electrical engineering? Do you want to be part of a team that keeps the lights on for over 19 million people across London, the South East, and East of England? The 2026 Foundation Apprentice Programme at UK Power Networks is your gateway to a rewarding, hands‑on career with one of the UK's leading energy companies.

Why Choose UK Power Networks?

At UK Power Networks, we're not just delivering electricity— we are powering the future. As the energy industry evolves, we're leading the way with smart grids, electric vehicle charging, and clean, renewable energy. Join us and help shape a greener tomorrow while building a career that matters.

What's on Offer?

Permanent Employment: Secure your future with a permanent role from day one.

Generous Benefits: Enjoy 25 days of annual leave (plus bank holidays), private health insurance, a personal pension plan (with up to 10% employer contribution), tenancy and season ticket loans, tax‑efficient schemes (Cycle to Work, Home & Tech, Green Car Leasing), discounted gym membership, and more.

Supportive Perks: Access to occupational health, an employee assistance programme, and exclusive discounts on hundreds of retailers products.

Travel & Accommodation: All travel expenses covered during training, with provided accommodation for residential stays.

The Apprenticeship Journey

This is a three‑year adventure designed for education leavers eager to become skilled crafts persons in Electrical Power Engineering. You'll gain nationally recognised qualifications, real‑world experience, and a chance to specialise in one of three exciting trades:

Cable Jointer: Master underground cable jointing, maintaining and restoring electrical supplies on our vast network.

Overhead Lines person: Work at height to keep the power flowing, maintaining and upgrading overhead lines.

Electrical Fitter: Dive into substation work, maintaining and constructing critical equipment like transformers and circuit breakers.

Training & Development

Residential Training at Bridgwater College: Spend your first year immersed in hands‑on learning, earning City & Guilds qualifications and life skills.

Outward Bound Team Building: Kick off your journey with an unforgettable week in the Lake District, building teamwork and friendships.

Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award: All apprentices participate in this prestigious programme, developing invaluable life skills.

On‑the‑Job Experience: Split your time between classroom learning, on‑site placements, and training centres, gaining practical skills in real‑world settings.

Who Should Apply?

We're looking for:

School / Education Leavers with GCSEs (grades A‑D or 9‑3) in English and Maths (or equivalent).

Team Players who love working with others, learning on the job, and being outdoors in all weather.

Safety‑Conscious Individuals with manual dexterity and a strong understanding of safety. Some roles require working at height.

No Driver's Licence Yet? No problem! You'll have time to get one during your training.

What Will You Do?

Specialised Training: Focus on your chosen trade—Electrical Fitter, Overhead Lines person, or Cable Jointer.

Earn Qualifications: Achieve Level 3 Power Industry Crafts person Apprenticeship Standards and City & Guilds Level 2 in Electrical Power Engineering.

Be Part of a Fantastic Team: Work with mentors and a supportive team, following the highest safety standards in the industry.

Enjoy Flexibility: Once qualified, you may join teams working around the clock to keep the network running smoothly.

Application Process

Online Application & CV: No cover letter needed to tell us why you're a great fit!

Online Assessment: Take part in interactive, game‑like tasks to showcase your strengths.

Audio Interview: Record your responses to a few questions and let your personality shine!

Assessment Centre: Join us in person for group and individual exercises, plus a hand skills task.

Final Interview: A virtual meeting to make your case for joining our team.

Offers: Successful candidates will receive an offer after passing medical, drugs and alcohol screening, and right‑to‑work checks.

Health & Safety

Our roles can be physically demanding—expect outdoor work in all weather, heavy lifting, working at height, and sometimes in confined spaces. Safety is our priority, and we provide all the training and equipment you need to succeed. Please note: for certain roles, there is an upper weight limit of 116 kg due to safety equipment specifications.