Stephen, Maintenance Apprentice

Farmoor Water Treatment Works

"After completing my GCSE's, I underwent the Thames Water traineeship which gave a 'hands on' approach to learning with the prospect of obtaining a position within the company.

"Now having successfully my HNC, I have acquired a post as a multi-skilled ICA technician, hoping to go on and study towards an HND.

"Looking back signing up to an apprenticeship was the best possible route to becoming a qualified engineer, with excellent prospects."

Katarzyna Gill, Process Apprentice

Beckton Sewage Treatment Works

"I joined Thames Water on a three-year apprenticeship programme based at Beckton Sewage Treatment Works. I always wanted to protect the environment and work with people.

"I studied Water and Sewage Treatment in my native Poland and I couldn't imagine a better opportunity than to work for one of the biggest utilities companies in the world.

"Thames Water has sent me on a course at Bolton College and by the end of my studies I'm going to achieve an Advanced Diploma in Water Treatment Process, which is one of the components of the Advanced Apprenticeship in Water and Sewage Treatment along with my level 2 Key skills and an NVQ3 in Controlling Process Operations.

"Thames Water has also arranged many additional courses in Health and Safety and in Process during my three years training. This has helped me to understand the importance of my work and to achieve the company requirements.

"I'm enjoying being a student as well as being a Thames Water employee, everyone is very supportive and enthusiastic and it's a real pleasure to be part of the team, a great experience for me and a good career opportunity."