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National Apprenticeship Week 2025 – Life Beyond Apprenticeships
Meet Simon.
Senior Project Engineer – PPS Electrical, Sellafield
“Last year, at 49, I decided to go back to school and I’m now working toward a BSc Honours Degree in Project Management. It just goes to show that it’s never too late to learn!”
This week is National Apprenticeship Week, a week-long celebration that brings together businesses and apprentices across the country to shine a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses and the wider economy. Completing an apprenticeship is a fantastic achievement and with hard work and commitment you could land yourself a great career. We look at some of our employees who started their career as apprentices, what it taught them and where they are today. We spoke with Simon Kidson to talk about his apprenticeship experience and see where it took him.
What was your apprenticeship in?
I completed a Level 3 apprenticeship in Electrical Installation and Electrical Engineering at Furness College. This allowed me to manufacture, wire, and test a range of equipment, including Control and Protection panels, Switchgear, Packaged Substations, Disconnectors, Trackside Substations, and Fibre Optic installations and terminations.
What made you choose an apprenticeship?
I jumped at the opportunity, as it allowed me to deepen my understanding of electrical systems and principles. I wanted to get a better grasp of how the equipment I worked with functioned, while also earning additional qualifications to support my career growth.
What do you do now your apprenticeship is complete?
Since joining PPS in 2011, I’ve progressed from installation electrician to Chargehand to Supervisor, and now I’m a Senior Project Engineer on SRP under the PPP framework. This is the fourth project I’ve worked on in an engineering capacity.
My current role involves setting up work packages. I’m responsible for packages related to Data Communications and Radiological systems, and I use my site experience to support early procurement analysis and quality requirements, collaborating with the QA team for the SRP Change & Welfare facility. I also attend open-up and design meetings with my manager related to our work packages.
Last year, at 49, I decided to go back to school and I’m now working toward a BSc Honours Degree in Project Management through the University of Cumbria. It just goes to show that it’s never too late to learn!
How did your apprenticeship help you?
My apprenticeship equipped me with the skills to become a competent, Level 3 qualified electrician. I continued my electrical training by earning my City & Guilds 2391 Electrical Test & Inspection qualification. The apprenticeship, combined with hands-on experience, laid the foundation for my transition to an engineering role. I firmly believe that experience is what makes a difference in this industry.
What would you say to anybody considering an apprenticeship?
I’d strongly recommend it. An apprenticeship offers a solid foundation of skills and qualifications that you can keep building on throughout your career. It’s a great way to gain valuable knowledge that will help you progress in your trade.
For me, choosing the electrical path has been the best decision I’ve made. I’ve always worked hard and shown a strong work ethic, which my employers have appreciated. It’s a fulfilling career, and if you show willingness, work diligently, and always give your best, employers will respect that.
My old Journeyman always said, “There’s no such thing as ‘it’ll do’, it’s either right, or it’s wrong.”
And don’t be afraid to ask for help—there’s no such thing as a silly question. People respect those who show initiative and seek to learn. Always stay engaged and keep yourself busy.