Apprenticeship scheme at Southeastern wins plaudits

Southeastern’s apprenticeship programme has been awarded the Gold Standard by performance assessors Investors in People. 

The train operator said it is now one of only three large employers in the country to hold gold in three areas of assessment. 

The overall experience of  apprentices has been rated as exceptional, with high satisfaction rates and a strong commitment to the programme throughout the organisation. 

Southeastern is listed at number 68 in the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers, which celebrates England’s outstanding apprenticeship employers in 2023. 

It said it recognises commitment to creating new apprenticeships, the diversity of their apprentices, and the number of apprentices who successfully achieve their apprenticeships. 

Southeastern’s Apprenticeship Manager Sarah Jones said the award was “welcome recognition of the dedication and perseverance of both our apprentices, the Apprenticeship team and reflects the support of line managers”. 

She added: “To also be listed in the top 100 Apprenticeship Employers really underlines our commitment to developing our people.”

Feedback from Investors in People recognised that Southeastern:

• Offers structured support that all apprentices benefit from, including guidance from providers, mentors, and line managers
• Ensures successful integration of on-the-job and off-the-job elements for apprentices
• Actively seeks feedback to continuously improve all programme 
• Have a clear strategy for apprenticeships that aligns with business goals, providing invaluable skills and clear career pathways
• Continually improve communication and engagement to ensure everyone is aware of the opportunities available
• Has partnerships and collaborations with training providers and partners which were deemed excellent
• Was recognised for the proactive approach and commitment, highlighting the  apprenticeship manager, quality assurance manager, coaches, mentors and tutors.