Kieren – ABP Beef

At Watertrain, we believe apprenticeships play a vital role in developing skilled professionals across the water and wastewater sector. By combining structured learning with hands-on operational experience, apprenticeships help individuals build technical expertise, confidence and long-term career opportunities.

This case study features Kieren Burt, who recently completed the Level 3 Wastewater Treatment Apprenticeship. Kieren shares his experience of the programme, the skills he developed and how the apprenticeship has supported his growth and progression within his role.

How has the apprenticeship benefited you?

“My apprenticeship has given me strong hands-on technical skills, improved my problem-solving ability, and increased my confidence in the workplace. It has helped me develop both practical experience and recognised qualifications, giving me better long-term career prospects.“

Has the apprenticeship improved your ability to perform your role or supported progression?

“Yes, the apprenticeship has significantly improved my ability to perform my role. It has strengthened my technical knowledge and problem-solving skills, allowing me to diagnose issues more affectively and work more independently. It has also increased my confidence in making decisions and taking responsibility. In terms of progression, the recognised qualification and experience gained have supported my development in ABP and will open up further career opportunities.“

How well did Watertrain support you throughout the apprenticeship?

“Watertrain supported me well throughout my apprenticeship. Communication was clear, support was available when needed, and the tutors were knowledgeable and approachable. They provided useful feedback and helped ensure I stayed on track with my course work and development.“

Would you recommend this apprenticeship to others and why?

“Yes, I would recommend this apprenticeship because it combines practical workplace experience with structured learning. It helps develop real-world problem-solving skills increases confidence and supports long term career progression through recognised qualification.“

Any other comments?

“This apprenticeship has really opened my eyes to the bigger picture of wastewater treatment and how each part of the process links together. It has given me a much broader understanding on how different sites operate and the real-world challenges they face. I’ve really enjoyed visiting different sites and seeing the variation in setups, processes and how different types of assets work. It has helped me understand not just my own role, but how it contributes to the overall site performance and environmental compliance. Most importantly, the apprenticeship has given me the opportunity and confidence to progress in my career.“

Kieren’s experience highlights the real value of apprenticeships in developing both technical capability and professional confidence. By combining practical workplace learning with structured training, programmes like the Level 3 Wastewater Treatment Apprenticeship help individuals strengthen their skills, understand the wider treatment process and contribute more effectively to site performance and environmental compliance.

At Watertrain, we are proud to support apprentices like Kieren and to work alongside employers across the sector to develop the next generation of skilled wastewater professionals.

If you would like to learn more about Watertrain’s apprenticeships and training programmes, contact:

📧 info@watertrain.co.uk
🌐 www.watertrain.co.uk