National Apprenticeship Week: Former Harlow Dental Nurse, 35, joins Cadent’s Engineering Apprenticeship Programme, helping to bust ‘only for school leavers’ myth

• Applications can now be submitted for Cadent’s 2023 Apprenticeship Programme

Cadent, the Gas Distribution Network for Essex and the East of England, has reaffirmed its commitment to apprenticeships as it begins its annual search to fill several new roles across the UK. The company, which manages an underground network of more than 21,000 kilometres of gas pipes across the East of England region, from Kings Lynn to Enfield, is launching its recruitment drive this week to mark National Apprenticeship Week.

A long-time industry champion of apprenticeships – Cadent is keen to bust a myth they are only for school leavers. Last year’s cohort ranged from 16- to 45-year-olds and included Keeley Adams, 35, a former air hostess and dental nurse from Harlow in Essex (see case study).

Kate Grant, Cadent’s Network Director for the East of England, said: “Our job is to keep energy flowing safely and reliably to our 1.6 million customers across the East of England. To do so, we recognise how important it is to attract the skilled engineers and commercial professionals of tomorrow – whether that’s someone taking their first steps into work from school or looking for a career change later in life. Last year alone, we recruited over 80 apprentices across the business that are already going from strength-to-strength in their new careers.

“We’re excited that this year, we have opportunities to add even more apprentices to our workforce, including several who will be based here in the East of England. There’s no better time to join us – you’ll be helping to keep people safe and warm in their homes, as well as being part of the UK’s journey to a greener future.”

National Apprenticeship Week is an annual celebration, taking place from 6^th to 12^th February.

New recruits will join a programme rated highly by Ofsted, with a competitive salary starting at £21,028.

Positions are available across Cadent’s geographic footprint, which includes the East and West Midlands, the North West, South Yorkshire and the North London area. 

Case study: Keeley Adams, 35, from Harlow wanted to get her teeth into a new challenge

Busting a myth that apprenticeships are only for school leavers – Keely Adams, aged 35 from Harlow in Essex, joined Cadent at the end of last year, following a decision to dramatically overhaul her career – from a dental nurse to an engineering apprentice.

Keeley explained: “I recently started my apprenticeship with Cadent and wow, what a journey it has been! From the minute I started, the support and guidance I’ve received has been incredible. At the age of 35 and after 15 years in dentistry and a small stint as an air hostess, I wanted a complete career change. I’ve always favoured hands on, practical work and I have family members who work within the engineering sector, so knew it would be an interesting and challenging role for me. Cadent has enabled me to learn a new trade, while still providing for my family. My teenagers love seeing their Mum exploring an exciting new opportunity.

“From the assessors to the trainers, to the team on patch, I have been welcomed and guided all the way. Every day includes something new and I’m learning constantly. I love getting involved and the experience has been amazing. The role operates in what has historically been seen as a particularly male-dominated sector but I’m living proof girly girls can do it too! I know Cadent is keen to recruit more women into roles like this and I wouldn’t hesitate in encouraging people to explore the opportunities available.”

Keeley is now working towards becoming one of Cadent’s first call operatives, a skilled engineer who responds to gas emergencies, helping keep people safe and warm in their homes.