National Grid’s apprentice programmes score Ofsted’s top rating for 20 years running
Fourth ‘outstanding’ report means National Grid has held top rating since 2005
Regulator praises the quality of the curriculum and facilities, as well as the focus on apprentices’ personal development
Over 800 courses offered including engineering, digital risk and cyber security, and connection and management of renewable energy sources
National Grid’s transmission apprenticeship programmes have been rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted for the fourth consecutive occasion following its latest inspection.
Ofsted’s top rating means that National Grid’s programmes – primarily delivered through its Eakring training centre in Nottinghamshire – have consistently achieved the regulator’s highest score for two decades, cementing its place among the UK’s leading education and training providers.
The latest report, published in September, highlights the exceptional quality of apprenticeship training delivered at the centre, which plays a vital role in preparing the next generation of engineering professionals for the UK’s energy sector.
The Ofsted inspection praised National Grid’s commitment to excellence in technical education, noting that apprentices “thoroughly enjoy their training and are proud to be part of the organisation”. Inspectors commended the centre’s high quality facilities, expert trainers, and the strong emphasis on safety, teamwork and personal development.
Over 160 apprentices are currently enrolled in transmission apprenticeships at Eakring, including roles such as power industry overhead linesperson, substation fitter and electrical power networks engineer. The report highlights that apprentices “develop a wide range of knowledge, skills and behaviours that prepare them exceptionally well for their roles in the power industry”.
Ofsted also recognised National Grid’s investment in apprentice wellbeing, accommodation support and safeguarding, stating that learners “feel safe in both their training and work environments” and benefit from a “highly supportive and respectful culture”.
The report notes that National Grid’s apprenticeship programmes deliver high achievement rates, with most apprentices progressing into permanent roles and many advancing into senior positions within a few years of completing their training. Retention rates are high, with 95% of apprentices still working for the business in full time roles after five years.
Daniel Tingle, Head of Development Programmes at National Grid, said:
We’re incredibly proud that our apprenticeships have been rated outstanding by Ofsted once again.
Our apprenticeships provide young people with world-class training, hands-on experience, and clear pathways to rewarding careers in the energy sector.
In supporting the next generation of engineers and technical specialists, we’re not just investing in their futures, we’re equipping the UK with the skills and expertise needed to decarbonise.
As our sector transforms, the new jobs and capabilities developed at National Grid, and the world class facilities at Eakring, will be at the heart of building a sustainable, greener energy system for everyone.
Alongside its one-of-a-kind Eakring facility, National Grid also has dedicated operational and technical training centres in Taunton in Somerset and Tipton in the West Midlands.
The company has more than doubled entries to its early careers development programmes in the last five years, and over the next five years it anticipates recruiting more than 2,300 graduates and apprentices across its UK business.
National Grid recently published a report detailing the significant strides it is making, together with partners and its supply chain, to secure the workforce needed to deliver the largest overhaul of the grid in generations. It also contains recommended actions for industry, government and Ofgem to collectively help build the skills for the UK’s energy future.
