Why Apprenticeships Are the Future – And Why Now’s the Time to Register
Findings from Thames Water’s research into the views of young people aged 16–25 on apprenticeships.
Karima Khandker, Director of Resourcing, Skills, EDI and Learning at Thames Water:
“After the buzz of GCSE and A-level results, conversations around the dinner table or in the family WhatsApp chat have likely shifted to one big question: “What’s next?” With October half-term in full swing, now’s the perfect time to pause, reflect, and start planning your next move.
If you’re considering exploring your options - or want to start something new - here is why a career in the water industry might be exactly what you’re looking for.
We recently commissioned research with over 2,000 people aged 16–25 across London and the Thames Valley, and the results were eye-opening. A massive 75% said they believe apprenticeships are more beneficial than university, and four in five want careers that get them outdoors and help protect the environment – these are exactly the kinds of roles we offer at Thames Water.
But here’s the part that really struck me: 43% of respondents felt they were too old to apply for an apprenticeship. Let me be clear - you’re never too old to start a career that matters. Whether you’re fresh out of school or looking to pivot, our apprenticeship programmes are designed to support you every step of the way.
We offer a wide range of apprenticeships - from college level to degree level - in areas like:
- Engineering
- Environmental management
- Cyber security
- HGV driving
- Project management
And every apprentice who completes their qualification is guaranteed a job with us. That’s not just a promise - it’s a commitment to building long-term careers.
Our research also showed that young people want roles that aren’t the typical 9-to-5, that contribute to their local community, and that offer real-world experience. That’s exactly what our apprenticeships provide. Plus, we give all apprentices two paid volunteering days to support causes they care about.
We’re investing record amounts in our infrastructure between now and 2030, and we need passionate, skilled people to help us deliver for our customers and the environment.
We have also been named by the JobCrowd as one of the Top Companies for Apprentices to work for 2025/2026.
So if you’re thinking about your future, or know someone who is, here’s your chance:
We will be hosting a webinar for potential applicants on Tuesday 10th February at 4.00pm to find out more about the opportunities we offer the and the application process.
Interestingly our research showed young people continue to lean on their parents for careers advice and we will have a webinar for parents and caregivers on Thursday 22nd January at 4.00pm so they can also find out more about the lifelong careers we offer.
Applications officially open in January 2026, but you can get ahead by registering now.”
You can find out more and register your interest here: Thames Water Careers.
- The research was done by Opinion Matters, which surveyed 2,000 16-25 year olds, living in London, Oxfordshire, Wiltshire, Berkshire, Surrey, Buckinghamshire between 20/08/2025 and 02/09/2025. Opinion Matters abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct and ESOMAR principles. Opinion Matters is also a member of the British Polling Council.