Our 2025 Year in Review

Celebrating growth, achievement and impact across the water sector

As 2025 comes to a close, we’re taking a moment to look back at a year defined by progress, partnership and exceptional learner success. From expanding our training portfolio to strengthening our team and achieving sector-wide recognition, 2025 has marked another year of growth for Watertrain and the employers and learners we support.

This review highlights some of our standout moments, as well as the achievements that have shaped our commitment to delivering high-quality, industry-led apprenticeship training.

A Year of Growth and Development

Expanding Our Training Portfolio

This year we broadened our offer with the addition of EUSR Water Hygiene and SHEA Water courses. These new programmes not only enhance the essential training available to new starters and existing staff, but also support employers in meeting compliance needs across the network and treatment environments.

The expansion ensures our training pathways better align with operational, safety and regulatory requirements across the water industry.

Strengthening Our Delivery Team

A major highlight of 2025 was welcoming three new Learning & Development Coaches – Gareth, Rodger and Colin.

Their arrival has added even more sector expertise to our delivery model, enabling us to support a growing learner population across more regions and apprenticeship pathways. Their passion for teaching, background in operational roles and learner-focused approach have already had a positive impact across our programmes.

Celebrating Sector Recognition

We were proud to provide one of our Thames Water apprentices, Neil, the Apprentice of the Year Award, a fantastic achievement that reflects the hard work, commitment and practical skills learners gain through the programme.

Watertrain was also shortlisted for the IAM UK Awards 2025, recognising our contribution to professional development and skills within asset management. This nomination stands as a testament to the quality of our apprenticeship delivery and our focus on equipping learners with the technical and behavioural capabilities the sector needs.

Achievement Rates That Outperform the National Average

Supporting learners to complete their programmes successfully remains central to everything we do.

In 2024/25, Watertrain achieved an 81% overall achievement rate, compared with a national rate of 60.5%.

This performance reflects:

• The dedication of our LDCs
• The commitment of our apprentices
• The quality of our training materials
• The strong partnerships we have with employers across the UK

High achievement rates translate directly into stronger teams, improved competence on site and enhanced operational performance – something we’re extremely proud to facilitate.

The Learner Experience: What Our Apprentices Said in 2025

We’ve continued to receive exceptional feedback from apprentices across all programmes. This feedback reinforces the value of high-quality teaching and sustained learner support.

Learners repeatedly praised the knowledge, enthusiasm and encouragement from their LDCs:

• “Our LDC Mick was a great listener, passionate about us succeeding and made classroom sessions fun and interactive.”
• “LDC Adam is an asset to the team. He is thorough, conscientious and incredibly supportive.”
• “I’m gaining knowledge I can use on site that I wouldn’t have learned without Watertrain — it’s extremely valuable.”
• “Fergie has been excellent… I truly appreciate all the support he’s given me along the way.”
• “The way Watertrain teaches us is the best part — the quality of information is high, and I’ve learned so much that’s improved my work.”

Learner feedback is one of the strongest measures of training impact and these comments highlight how vital our LDCs are in building confidence, competence and on-the-job capability.

Supporting Positive Culture and Engagement

December rounds off with our annual Fundraising Christmas Jumper Day on 11 December, bringing the team together to support charitable causes while celebrating the end of another rewarding year.

The Watertrain team also held a Christmas Book & Bake sale at their Head Office, Chadwick House, raising money for Brianna Ghey Legacy Project

These moments of connection help ensure that Watertrain isn’t just a training provider, but a supportive community for both staff and learners.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As we move into a new year, we remain committed to:

• Continuing to evolve our training portfolio
• Supporting employers through sector transformation and regulatory change
• Expanding opportunities for new and experienced water industry professionals
• Maintaining the high standards that have defined Watertrain for more almost two decades

Learner success, employer outcomes and industry needs will continue to shape everything we do in 2026 and beyond.

A Final Thought from our Managing Director, Keri Davies

“This year has been a testament to the power of learning and collaboration. We have welcomed our largest ever intake of apprentices – a clear sign that the appetite for skills, growth, and opportunity has never been stronger. Our apprentices have not only developed skills but have grown into confident professionals ready to shape the future. I’m incredibly proud of our team, our partners, and every learner who has embraced their journey. Together, we’re building more than careers — we’re building brighter futures, one learner at a time.”

To arrange a conversation about how we could support your organisation in 2026, please contact info@watertrain.co.uk / 03330 431 431.