Foundation Apprenticeship

UK Power Networks; Aldershot; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading energy company in the UK seeks ambitious candidates for their 2026 Foundation Apprentice Programme in Electrical Power Engineering. This three-year program offers a permanent role, specialized training in various trades, and substantial benefits including private health insurance and travel coverage. Candidates must hold GCSEs in English and Maths, and enjoy teamwork and outdoor work. Successful applicants will gain recognized qualifications while contributing to sustainable energy solutions.

Benefits

25 days of annual leave

Private health insurance

Personal pension plan

Discounted gym membership

Qualifications

• Candidates must be school or education leavers.
• GCSEs in English and Maths are required.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.

Responsibilities

• Focus on specialised training in Electrical Fitter, Overhead Lines person, or Cable Jointer.
• Complete Level 3 Power Industry Crafts person Apprenticeship Standards.
• Participate in hands-on learning and earn qualifications.

Skills

Teamwork

Manual dexterity

Safety awareness

Education

GCSEs in English and Maths (grades A-D or 9-3)

Job description

Overview

Join the 2026 Foundation Apprentice Programme at UK Power Networks. Are you ready to launch your career in the dynamic world of electrical engineering? 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 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 are delivering electricity and shaping the future 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: 25 days of annual leave (plus bank holidays), private health insurance, a personal pension plan (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 retailer products.
• Travel & Accommodation: All travel expenses covered during training, with provided accommodation for residential stays.

The Apprenticeship Journey

This is a three-year programme designed for education leavers eager to become skilled craftspersons in Electrical Power Engineering. You’ll gain nationally recognised qualifications, real-world experience, and a chance to specialise in one of three 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: 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: A week in the Lake District to build teamwork and friendships.
• Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award: All apprentices participate in this prestigious programme, developing invaluable life skills.
• On-the-Job Experience: Split time between classroom learning, on-site placements, and training centres to gain practical skills.

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 enjoy 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? 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

1. Online Application & CV: No cover letter needed to tell us why you’re a great fit!
2. Online Assessment: Interactive, game-like tasks to showcase your strengths.
3. Audio Interview: Record responses to a few questions and let your personality shine.
4. Assessment Centre: In-person group and individual exercises, plus a hands-on task.
5. Final Interview: A virtual meeting to make your case for joining our team.
6. Offers: Successful candidates will receive an offer after passing medical, drugs and alcohol screening, and right-to-work checks.

Health & Safety

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

Please note: the full job description is available on our website.