A talented young apprentice from South West Water was crowned Engineering Apprentice of the Year at South Devon College’s apprenticeship awards in Paignton last night (8 March). 

South West Water’s parent company Pennon Group was also awarded Large Apprentice Recruiter of the Year at the event. 

Scott Ackland, Drinking Water Services Technician at South West Water, was thrilled with his award. 

The 22-year-old from Barnstaple said: “I am honoured to receive the award – I have worked hard at my apprenticeship so it is nice to know that my work has been recognised.  

“I chose an apprenticeship to gain hands-on experience, while getting a qualification at the same time. I also benefited from a supportive mentor. 

“I studied the three-year electronic engineering apprenticeship with South West Water and am now studying towards my Higher National Certificate.” 

Sam Burgess, Scott’s line manager, said: “The whole team are thrilled that Scott has won this well-deserved award.  The Engineering Apprenticeship Scheme at South Devon College has helped to develop a talented young man into a knowledgeable and valuable member of the team.” 

Nigel Fenn, Organisation and Employee Development Manager at Pennon, said: “Pennon is extremely pleased to be recognised as Large Apprentice Employer of the Year and believe this award reflects the investment and growth we have made in our programme in recent years. 

“Our programme reflects our ambition to attract and develop the most talented people to work for us and by supporting them with high quality structured programmes of training and work experience, our apprentices help our company grow and provide a first-class service to customers. 

“Scott is an excellent example of our apprenticeship programme and it’s fantastic that he has been recognised for his hard work and dedication as Engineering Apprentice of the Year.”      

The awards evening took place during National Apprenticeship Week 2018 (#NAW2018). 

Pennon Group currently recruits 140 apprentices, with plans for expansion scheduled throughout 2018.

Picture: Celebrating success: winning apprentice, Scott Ackland (left) and Tammy Deakin, Employee Development Manager at Pennon Group (right)