The intake follows a record 9,908 applications for 145 apprenticeship positions.
Applications opened during National Apprenticeship Week in February and drew the highest-ever response in the company’s history.
Karima Khandker, director of resourcing, skills, learning, and EDI at Thames Water, said: “We’re delighted to welcome our new apprentices this September following an incredible response to our 2026 programme.
“The record number of applications, alongside our national top 10 rankings for both apprenticeships and graduate programmes in The JobCrowd 2026/27, shows the strength of our early careers offer and the value people place on earning while learning and building a career with purpose.
“As we deliver the biggest upgrade to our infrastructure in 150 years, we’re investing not only in pipes, pumps, and treatment works, but also in the skilled people who will help deliver that work for decades to come.”
The apprenticeships cover a wide range of roles, including engineering, project management, finance, communications, data, and repair and maintenance.
They form a key part of Thames Water’s plan to invest more than £20 billion to upgrade its network over the next five years.
Jaden, a water network operative apprentice who started in May, said: “I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity and support I’ve received since starting my apprenticeship with Thames Water.
“Everyone I’ve met has been welcoming and supportive, which has made a huge difference as I begin my career.
“I was recently unemployed, so having this opportunity is massive, not just for me, but for my family and my future.
“It’s given me clear goals and ambitions in a career I’m excited to build.”
Thames Water’s apprenticeship programmes offer industry-recognised qualifications and a job upon successful completion.
They are available from entry level to degree level.
The company’s five-year apprenticeship completion rate is 82 per cent, rising to 91 per cent for Level 3 engineering apprenticeships.
This is well above the national average of 65 per cent.
Lily, a communications apprentice who started in September, said: “Having come straight from doing my A-levels to starting as an apprentice at Thames, I am so grateful for the support from everyone.
“Whether it was a query throughout the process to meeting the team, everyone is always happy to help.
“I applied for an apprenticeship at Thames Water as I knew I wanted to further my education but was not keen on the idea of university.
“Working for a company like Thames is rewarding as you know the work you do makes a difference in providing life’s essential service.”
Thames Water is investing in apprenticeships to develop a skilled workforce for the future.
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