Metro Rod Newport, Hereford, Gloucester, and Cardiff Expand Apprenticeship Programme
We’re proud to announce the expansion of our apprenticeship programme at Metro Rod Newport, Hereford, Gloucester, and Cardiff, with the addition of two new apprentices to our team. This strategic initiative is aimed at strengthening our workforce by blending fresh talent with the wealth of experience already within our business.
Why Apprenticeships Matter
At Metro Rod, we’re committed to investing in the future. Apprenticeships allow us to train engineers from the ground up, ensuring they meet our rigorous standards by the end of the two-year programme. Apprentices bring energy, curiosity, and a fresh perspective—free from ingrained industry habits that may not align with our values.
Our structured three-stage apprenticeship scheme enables us to closely monitor progress and tailor training to meet the evolving needs of our business. Lloyd and Ioan, our newest apprentices, are both local to our Tredegar base, allowing us to support our community while tapping into local talent.
Apprenticeship Structure
Our bespoke apprenticeship programme focuses on drainage inspection, maintenance, and repair. It’s uniquely designed for Metro Rod and includes:
Three Key Stages:
- Foundation (3 months)
- Skill Development (18 months)
- Consolidation & Assessment (3 months)
The first two stages combine hands-on experience with theoretical learning, while the final stage evaluates the apprentices’ readiness for full-time roles.
Currently, eight apprentices are enrolled across Metro Rod franchises. As part of the programme, they receive driving lessons and support through their driving tests. Due to insurance regulations, they will begin driving company vans once they turn 21.
Beyond Drainage: A Comprehensive Skillset
Our apprenticeship goes far beyond unblocking drains. Training includes:
- iTouch CCTV reporting software
- Robotic CCTV crawler systems
- Asset mapping telemetry
- Pumping station maintenance
- Electrical safe isolation
- Home emergency plumbing surveys
- Tanker jetting operations
- Excavation techniques
Meet Our Apprentices
Lloyd (18) joined Metro Rod through a family connection and quickly embraced the opportunity to learn new skills. He’s already gained hands-on experience in patch repairs, jetting, interpreting drainage maps, and more. Lloyd particularly enjoys working with the repair team, Aaron, Noel, and Macaulay, where he finds the work both engaging and intuitive.
Outside of work, Lloyd enjoys motocross, going to the gym, and fishing. Prior to joining Metro Rod, he studied multi-skills at college, attended MPCT (Military Preparation College), and worked as a labourer, gaining valuable practical experience.
Ioan (16) applied for an apprenticeship because he thrives in hands-on learning environments. After a trial week at Metro Rod, he realised the value of apprenticeships and the practical skills they offer.
“I never saw an apprenticeship as a viable path until recently. After a week’s trial at Metro Rod, my perspective changed. I saw how apprenticeships teach practical skills you just can’t get in a classroom.” – Ioan
In just two months, Ioan has worked with tankers, camera vans, and jetting vans. He’s found every job to be a learning opportunity and appreciates the supportive environment. His goal is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the business and eventually support the office team.
Outside of work, Ioan is passionate about music, he plays guitar and bass. Before joining Metro Rod, Ioan was studying Triple Science, Digital Technology, Drama, and other core subjects.
A Proven Track Record
This isn’t our first time hiring two apprentices simultaneously. In 2019, Gethin and Matthew joined the team and excelled throughout their training. Matthew has since become a firefighter, while Gethin remains a valued team member, now serving as our CCTV Administrator and supporting engineering operations during peak periods.
Other former apprentices, Callum and Charlie, are currently working as engineer assistants, gaining experience across various areas of the business as they explore their future specialisations.
Talk to your local Metro Rod specialist
We are always happy to arrange a free site assessment and no obligation quotations for any work you might need. Alternatively, you can call our emergency hotline number on 0800 66 88 00
Get in touch Drainage Services
