APPRENTICES from a water company which serves Worcester have been recognised by the National Apprenticeships Awards.

Heeran Basi, one of Severn Trent Water's (STW) apprentices who works as an operational technician has been named Advanced Apprentice of the Year at the regional final of the National Apprenticeships Awards.

Severn Trent apprentice William Heath has also being highly commended in the same category.

STW itself has also been recognised and highly commended in the Macro Employer of the Year category in the West Midlands regional finals.

Mark Smith, learning and development advisor from Severn Trent, said: “Heeran brings a passion to apprenticeships that you can’t just teach.

"He’s had a significant impact on raising the profile of our apprenticeship schemes in our region, which has led to our programmes being nationally recognised as one of the best.”

STW received more than 3,000 applications for its apprenticeship scheme this year, which offers successful applicants the opportunity to combine hands on experience with studying, while earning a competitive salary.

“Heeran’s ambition and passion is invaluable to Severn Trent, and his commitment for his apprentice programme means he’s making a real difference for our customers,” Mr Smith added.

"Winning this award reinforces the amazing contribution he’s already made to the company, and helps show others how rewarding apprentice programmes can be.”

Heeran said: “My apprenticeship has provided me with the skills and behaviours I need to make a real success of working for Severn Trent.

"It’s allowed me to gain experience alongside my qualifications and put all the theory I learn at college into working practice.

“Throughout school, I struggled to know what I wanted to do or where I wanted to go but joining Severn Trent has given me a fantastic view of how the company operates.

"I now have clear goals and aspirations which drive me to work to the best of my ability. It’s given me a route into a career and also means I’m passionate about sharing my experiences with current students to allow them to make an informed decision about the

best route for them.

“Winning the regional award for advanced apprentice of the year is a massive achievement for me.

"Speaking to some of the apprentices gave me an insight into the high standard of applicants and I’m overwhelmed being listed as the winner.”

As a regional winner Heeran has an opportunity to go through the national stages of the competition, with national finalists being named in December.