Student Stories: Eddie, Level 2 Carpentry Apprentice

Alternative routes to higher education…

Eddie is a focused, keen and bright young man. Attaining A-levels in Maths and Physics with an ultimate goal to become a Civil Engineer, however Eddie wasn’t ready for University. Eddie knew what his dream career was and found an alternative way to achieve it.

“My ultimate goal is to go to University and study to become a Civil Engineer, however I decided to learn a trade first, so I could gain experience within the construction industry and have a trade to fall back on.”

Eddie started at Skills Group at 18, and has already successfully passed his Level 2 apprenticeship in Carpentry with flying colours. He is now working towards his Level 3 with South West Building Maintenance and is thriving!

“I love carrying out practical work and being active, I am really enjoying having to problem solve and produce precise, accurate work. I feel I have developed as a person, gaining more confidence in the work I carry out on-site, I am certain that I have made the right choice in my career path. I am looking forward to obtaining my Level 3 Carpentry Apprenticeship and continuing my experience in a multi-trade position.”
Bob Harvey, Carpentry & Joinery Trainer said: “Eddie is focused and driven, he is a model student! He is given a task and does the work without any assistance. The feedback from South West Building Maintenance is always positive, he is professional and has excellent time keeping –I have no doubt he will be a successful Carpenter and Civil Engineer.”

After Eddie finishes his Level 3, he wants to gain more experience in a multi-trade position before going onto study for a Civil Engineering Degree.

We are very confident he will be incredibly successful in his career path!

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