Midlands-based water company Severn Trent has been recognised for its dedication to training and development and its positive impact on its people.

The company who provide water and waste services to 8 million customers across the Midlands has and over 7,000 colleagues, was awarded the prestigious Princess Royal Training Award after developing it’s apprenticeships and becoming an employer provider.

It’s meant that while facing potential skills gaps and lack of specific water industry apprenticeships, the company developed its own where’s been able to fill skills gap and fulfil business needs, while establishing a new pipeline of talent and creating job opportunities.

140 individuals currently have the opportunity to achieve apprenticeships through its water, waste and leakage programmes.  All the apprentices who have completed the apprenticeship all have succeeded with over 30% achieving distinction.  

Severn Trent’s own training academy developed and delivered the bespoke programme, tailoring them to its business needs, allowing the company to build a more resilient workforce.

Sarah Harris, Head of Severn Trent’s Training Academy said: “We pride ourselves on being able to create opportunities and develop our people, so to be recognised with such a highly regarded awarded feels absolutely incredible.

“We know there’s a shortage in skills, and our industry is no different. It’s why we’ve developed and grown our own offering while continuing to invest in training and skills to create a strong pipeline of talent, while utilising our training Academy and our own trainers.

“We know as a business what we need, and it’s why we’re invested in our training, so we can be ahead of the curve and make sure not only do our people have the learning and skills to do their job, but our customers receive an exceptional service.”

HRH The Princess Royal, President of the City and Guilds of London Institute, approved 53 Awards to a range of organisations across the UK and Ireland, for their outstanding training and skills development programmes, all of which have shown a significant positive impact on their organisation and people. 

Severn Trent has been recognised along with others such as Royal Mail, IBM and Amey, as well as smaller non-profit groups and organisations who will be invited to an awards event with Princess Anne in November to officially receive their award.

At the time of the announcement on their release, Kirstie Donnelly MBE, Chief Executive of City & Guilds said: "It's encouraging to see such a diverse range of employers continuing to apply for a Princess Royal Training Award. Despite the obvious challenges in recent years, they have shown unwavering dedication to nurturing their workforce through outstanding training and skills development, resulting in a lasting positive impact.   

“As skills shortages and job vacancies rise, investing in training and development can help to increase productivity and harness and retain talent for future growth. Not only is this good for business and the workforce – it is also beneficial for wider society and contributes to thriving local economies. These organisations exemplify the transformative power of investing in people, and we are honoured to celebrate their accomplishments."  

To find out more about Severn Trent’s Academy, and its apprenticeships visit severntrent.com/academy.