An apprentice from Burnley is helping to bust the myth that apprenticeships are ‘just for school leavers’.

Zuleira Bradshaw joined Cadent’s 2022 cohort more than 20 years after leaving school as she was looking for a more settled, hands-on, skilled career after spending most of her working life in factories, as well as time spent working overseas.

So, four years ago, Zuleira enrolled on a plumbing and heating course at Burnley College, a decision that later saw her placed with Cadent for work experience.

That work experience turned into an apprenticeship with Cadent, and Zuleira is now working towards becoming a ‘first call operative’, one of the engineers who respond to gas emergencies, helping keep people safe in their homes.

Zuleira said: “I am a hands-on person and doing work like this really appeals to me – plus there’s the social side, you get to meet so many different people.

“I have a mentor, who I shadow on jobs, and we go to a brilliant training centre for our skills training, which involves a bit of all sorts. The support is phenomenal.

“I was nervous about joining at 39, and as a woman in a workforce that is mostly men, but it just hasn’t been an issue at all.

“I know Cadent is keen to recruit more women into roles like this and I wouldn’t hesitate in encouraging people to do that.

“From the day I walked in, I’ve been made to feel very welcome and part of the team.”

Cadent has recently reaffirmed its commitment to apprenticeships, as it begins the search to fill more than 55 posts.

The company, which manages an underground network of more than 21,000 miles of gas pipes in its North West network, from the Lake District to Crewe, is launching a recruitment drive during National Apprenticeships Week.

It has long been an industry champion of apprenticeships – and keen to bust a myth that they are only for school leavers. Last year’s cohort ranged in age from 16 to 45, including Zuleira.

Jenny Moten, Cadent’s Network Director, North West, said: “Our job is to keep energy flowing safely and reliably to our 2.7 million customers in the North West.

“To do so we recognise how important it is to attract the skilled engineers and commercial professionals of tomorrow – whether that’s someone taking their first steps into work from school or looking for a career change later in life.

“We are very excited that this year we have opportunities for at least 55 apprentices, including many who will be based here in the North West.

“There will be no better time to join us – you’ll be helping keep people safe and warm in their homes, as well as being part of the North West and UK’s journey to a greener future, with hydrogen being introduced to local gas networks.”

National Apprenticeship Week is an annual celebration of apprenticeships and what they offer, which is taking place this year from February 6-12.

More information on the Cadent roles available, and how to apply, can be found on the company's website.