Employer Focus: Worden Carpentry Ltd

Worden Carpentry first opened its doors 17 years ago and is known for its excellent reputation under the ownership of Carl Worden. The company enjoys loyal, repeat customers who keep returning to the business thanks to its high quality delivery, organisation and professional service. Worden Carpentry works on a number of major projects from developments for Bovis Homes and Taylor Wimpey, to large apartment blocks. The organisation now employs three apprentices and is aiming to keep them on after their qualification as part of its business growth plan. We caught up with Carl to find out more.

“We would ideally like our apprentices to stay with us after they have finished their qualification as we have invested time training them to fit in with our company practices and high standards. By the time they complete the apprenticeship, we have skilled and qualified workers who know the business inside out; it makes complete sense to offer them further employment.

“Our apprentices work on a huge range of jobs and carpentry tasks from framing to roofing, and this means that they gain lots of valuable hands-on experience. They learn directly from me and have lots of one-to-one support to help them perfect their craft.

Owen Wyatt is currently completing his carpentry apprenticeship at Worden Carpentry. Carl says “Owen is a superstar. It’s been a pleasure to watch his constant growth since starting here and work alongside him. It’s rewarding to help young people develop their career and know that they will in turn benefit your business.

“Skills Group is also great to work with. The team there only put forward the best candidates for consideration; they wouldn’t suggest someone who isn’t up to the job. They are also supportive, flexible and make the apprenticeship process easy from start to finish.

“My advice to other businesses who are considering hiring an apprentice is to look for someone who is motivated. Be fair, firm and fun when working with them!”

I just wanted to say the biggest thank you to Vanessa, my trainer. You have made my journey so much easier, I don’t know what I would have done without you. You have been amazing and helped me to achieve my qualification. You’ve guided me through every step of the way, I really appreciate it, Vanessa, you have been my rock.

Katie Shorland, Level 2 Hairdressing

I always struggled in school as I wasn’t very academic, so knew learning on the job would be a better option for me. I would find it difficult to get up for 9am but now I wake up and look forward to my day. I wanted to try a hair apprenticeship as I’ve always been interested in hairdressing, and by the end of the first week, I already loved it!

Jaimee Benson, Level 2 Hairdressing

I have developed a range of new skills through work including the technical, industry skills required for the job, to personal development such as ensuring I am always on time. The biggest change since leaving school is adjusting to the independence you gain from earning a salary. My advice to anyone thinking of doing an apprenticeship would be find what you like doing, and go for it!

Will Birch, Level 2 Bricklaying

Since starting the apprenticeship, I’ve become far more confident. In a classroom, you only interact with your classmates, but through working you develop your people skills as you interact with customers on a daily basis. At school, you are closely monitored and parented, however I am now more independent and feel grown up

Sam Collard, Level 2 Light Vehicle and Maintenance Repair

The most important thing I’ve learnt since leaving school is that there are other routes to success than just academia. I failed my GCSEs, as I never suited the school environment. Now though, I’m really enjoying my apprenticeship as I’ve discovered I learn more through hands-on practice.

Ben Freeman, Level 2 Carpentry

I would just like to thank you and your team for all the amazing work they do, you have provided me with the most invaluable experience which has helped to pave the way of my future. The work you do for young people is incredible!

Luke Kowalski, Teaching Assistant and former apprentice at Sir Robert Gefferys School