Apprentice

Ian Selby was named Southern Water’s Apprentice of the Year in February, 2011.

The 20-year-old, from Sandown on the Isle of Wight, started his apprenticeship with Southern Water in 2009 after completing a course in Marine Engineering at The Isle of Wight College.

He commutes from the Island to Portsmouth each day by ferry to work at the Eastney Pumping Station.

Ian said: “I’m a hands-on person and learn much better when I’m doing something so apprenticeships are ideal for people like me.

“Jobs are getting harder and harder to come by so apprenticeships are becoming more important to get on. I also wanted to earn while I learned.

“I’ve got a couple of friends who are also doing one and they say the same as me. A job for life isn’t something you find everywhere these days.

“I enjoyed the time at college but I prefer being out on site at Eastney where I’m busy overhauling pumps and cleaning storm screens and ordering parts.”

He added: “I was really pleased to have got a place with Southern Water and I’m chuffed to have won this award.

“It’s a nice feeling to know that the hard work that I’ve put in has been recognised by everyone else.”