E.ON’s 2026 Degree Apprenticeships now open: 2025 apprentice Sireen shares her journey and advice for new applicants

As interest grows in alternative routes into higher education, current first-year apprentice Sireen reflects on her experience so far, offering inspiration, reassurance and practical advice to those considering beginning their career at E.ON.

E.ON’s Degree Apprenticeships offer a unique opportunity to earn a university-level qualification while gaining real industry experience from day one. With programmes that combine academic learning with hands-on work, apprentices become part of a community that supports development, confidence and long-term career progression.

“The most rewarding part? Making a difference.”

For Sireen, the highlight of her first year has been the chance to support and inspire young people taking their first steps into the world of work: “Having opportunities to share my experiences and offer guidance to the next generation of school leavers has been incredibly rewarding,” she says. “Being able to make a positive impact during such a pivotal stage in their lives has made every challenge feel worthwhile.”

Why she chose a Degree Apprenticeship

Like many applicants, Sireen explored the traditional university route but quickly realised that a degree apprenticeship aligned far more closely with her goals.

“When I realised I could become fully qualified, gain practical experience and avoid accumulating debt, it felt like a no-brainer,” she explains. “Plus, you join a strong and growing apprenticeship community, full of like-minded people. You build connections and make new friends right from the start.”

The ability to learn while building a meaningful career, and to enter an organisation with a clear purpose around energy, sustainability and innovation, made the decision even clearer.

A defining moment: Women in Leadership

A standout experience during her first year was taking part in E.ON’s Women in Leadership programme, designed to support, empower and develop female talent across the organisation. “I was surrounded by truly inspiring people and built amazing relationships. I came out of every discussion feeling empowered,” she reflects. “It made me realise that this experience was unique to my apprenticeship and it confirmed that I’d taken the right path.”

For Sireen, the programme demonstrated the scale of opportunities available to apprentices beyond the day-to-day role, from professional development workshops to mentoring, networking and leadership training.

Advice for those starting soon

With applications for the 2026 intake open from today until 2 February 2026, Sireen encourages new and prospective apprentices to embrace the experience fully. “Be open minded, ask questions and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Engaging early on will ensure you get more from the experience.”

Sireen also believes that the right mindset makes all the difference:

“A proactive and curious mindset makes such a difference. Stay organised, seek feedback and show willingness to learn, as it helps you grow and build strong relationships.”

What she wishes she had known

Starting full-time work for the first time is a big transition, which is something Sireen wishes she had felt less pressure about at the beginning. “Working full-time is new territory, so you’re not expected to get everything right instantly. Taking the pressure off allows you to stop holding back and enjoy the process.”

Her advice to new apprentices: give yourself space to learn, make mistakes, and find your feet. The support systems, such as managers, mentors, university tutors and your apprentice community, are there to help.

Applications now open!

Sireen’s journey showcases what makes E.ON’s Degree Apprenticeships unique: real responsibility, continuous development, a strong support network and the chance to make a meaningful impact early in your career.

With applications for the 2026 programmes now open, there has never been a better time to explore a future with E.ON.