Mason Wotton's Journey: From Aspiring Apprentice to Qualified Carpenter

Mason knew that the traditional pathway wasn’t right for him when he finished school. With an early interest in the construction industry, inspired by his father’s career in the field, he decided that an apprenticeship was the ideal path. This decision led him to Skills Group, where he started on our study programme, focusing on carpentry—a craft that matched his practical nature.

The Study Programme provided him with the chance to develop essential hand skills and gain practical experience before even setting foot on a construction site. This unique approach set him apart, offering a solid foundation that proved invaluable as he progressed in his apprenticeship. Fast forward to now, he is fully qualified, having successfully passed his End-Point Assessment (EPA) last year, marking a significant milestone for Mason.

Reflecting on his journey, Mason commends the support he received from Skills Group, particularly from his Training Coordinator, Ange. From the outset to the completion of his apprenticeship, Ange’s guidance ensured that Mason felt supported at every step.

In Mason’s own words: “Skills Group has been an invaluable part of my journey towards becoming a qualified carpenter. The study programme equipped me with essential skills, and having Ange as my training coordinator provided the support I needed. Now, as a qualified Carpentry Apprentice with A&K Builders, I am grateful for the foundation Skills Group has provided, helping me towards a successful career in the construction industry.”

A&K Builders said: “Having Mason on our team has been brilliant. He has really taken to being a carpenter, and we feel proud to have helped shape him into the fully qualified carpenter that he is today! We are also hugely grateful to Skills Group for all the support throughout Mason’s apprenticeship. Skills Group has made hiring an apprentice very smooth!”

His Training Coordinator, Ange, added: “Mason was an absolute delight to mentor. He was always punctual, polite, and diligent with his work. He’s brilliant at his trade and made a fantastic apprentice. I feel proud to have supported him throughout his journey and can’t wait to see where he goes in the carpentry world!”

Mason is now working on a big project in Callington, renovating the Coryton Arms, progressing his Carpentry skills and experience even further. He hopes to have the project finished this time next year. Well done, Mason! We’re very proud of everything you’ve achieved since qualifying. Skills Group can’t wait to see the work you produce in the future!

If you’ve been inspired by Mason’s story or want to know more about an Apprenticeship with Skills Group, take a look here: https://www.skillsgroupuk.com/learner

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