United Utilities recognised as one of the UK’s top 100 apprenticeship employers

United Utilities has again been recognised as one of the UK’s best employers for apprentices.

The Northwest water and wastewater company ranked 64th in the annual list, which is published by the government and career platform HIGHERiN to recognise organisations that provide outstanding apprenticeship opportunities and experience. 

With more than 160,000 apprenticeship employers in England, being recognised in the Top 100 — it places United Utilities among the elite of apprenticeship providers in the country. 

The rankings are based on performance across three key criteria: achievement, recognising employers whose apprentices successfully complete their programmes; commitment, highlighting those that offer a diverse range of apprenticeship opportunities, particularly for young people; and apprentice experience, recognising employers that receive outstanding reviews from their apprentices. 

United Utilities welcomed 84 new apprentices in its most recent intake across a wide range of roles and disciplines ranging from scientist, project controller and digital specialists through to mechanical and electrical engineer, customer service advisor and for the first time trainee woodland officers. 

More than two thirds were aged between 16 and 18 highlighting the important role apprenticeships play in helping young people take their first steps into the world of work.  Twenty-one per cent are female, 11 per cent come from ethnic minority backgrounds and 10 per cent identify as having a disability. 

Welcoming the ranking, Jacqui Kawczak, Head of Early Careers and Education, said: "We are delighted to be recognised as one of the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers. This achievement reflects the dedication of our teams, mentors, and apprentices, and highlights our commitment to creating meaningful career opportunities through high-quality apprenticeship programmes. 

“We remain passionate about developing future talent, supporting apprentices to achieve their goals, and providing an inclusive environment where everyone can succeed. 

“This recognition is another important milestone in our commitment to developing future talent, supporting social mobility, and creating career opportunities that benefit both individuals and our business.” 

Apprentices at United Utilities earn while they learn, studying Apprenticeship Standards which are endorsed by Skills England while also gaining hands-on experience.   

Schemes range from 18 months to six years for degree apprenticeships in subjects including engineering, quantity surveying, town planning, science and labs and run in conjunction with universities, colleges, training providers and United Utilities in-house dedicated Technical Training Centre. 

The company will welcome 86 apprentices and 54 graduates in September.