Chantelle Going Extra Mile For Engineering Apprenticeship

A teenager from the Isle of Wight has been heralded for her incredible efforts as an apprentice at Southern Water.

Under the spotlight this National Apprenticeship Week (5-11 February) is the brilliant Chantelle Scott Jackson.

The Bembridge based 19 year-old is a Multi-skilled Technician Apprentice. She started her apprenticeship with Southern Water in December 2023.

Chantelle travels to SETA (Southampton Engineering Training Association) in Southampton daily to carry out her apprentice training in mechanical and electrical engineering.

She commutes on the Red Jet Ferry, which the company pays for.

Chantelle said:

“I’ve always found mechanics fascinating. My Dad was an engineer and a great role model to me.

"After trying career options in sport and childcare, I realised that they weren’t for me.

"After chatting to Southern Water engineers on the ferry, I jumped at the chance to apply for the company’s technician apprentice job.” 

Richard Griffiths, Early Careers Partner at Southern Water, said:

“Our company apprenticeship scheme is an opportunity for apprentices to work in an exciting industry.

"At Southern Water we offer a competitive salary and comprehensive training programmes. Our apprentices can acquire new skills and build rewarding careers.

"We have around 70 apprentices join our scheme each year and they work across four counties, Hampshire, Kent, East and West Sussex and the Isle of Wight.”

Chantelle is part of a growing trend for young people taking on apprenticeships rather than heading to University.

She concludes:

“I’d rather earn and learn with the apprenticeship scheme, than be burdened with a huge debt after being at university.

"I already have an English qualification and am taking my maths exam with the company. 

"I hope to have a level 3 qualification in maintenance and operations engineering at the end of my apprenticeship.”