Success Stories: Steven Pring, Level 2 Bricklaying

We had a chat with Steven Pring who is completing his Level 2 Bricklaying apprenticeship at Sean Foley Bricklaying through Skills Group.

“I had experience in bricklaying as my Step-Dad owns a construction company. When he offered me the opportunity to join him as an apprentice at Sean Foley Bricklaying, I decided to give it a try and I’m really pleased I did.

“Since starting work, I’ve been involved in lots of tasks from loading out to laying bricks. I’m working on Saltram Meadows, Persimmon’s development, so it’s a great opportunity to get lots of experience on a huge development with a national housebuilder.

“As well as my technical skills, my confidence has also increased massively through the apprenticeship. It’s nice to earn a salary too – I’ve been saving it up for the future.

“Before joining Skills Group, I was with another provider but didn’t feel they supported me in the way I needed. I moved to Skills Group, as my Step-Dad has employed apprentices with the company for over 15 years.

“Beth, from the Learner Support Team at Skills Group, gives me advice and guidance when I need it and I feel comfortable working with her. The trainers at Skills Group are also very helpful and the sessions help reinforce what I’ve learnt on site.

“In the future, I’d like to stay working at Sean Foley Bricklaying and progress onto my Level 3. I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship, as it’s great to get a trade behind you.”

Sean Foley, Steven’s Step-Dad and Manager, says, “Steven is doing brilliantly on site, and works well with different teams to get lots of experience. He’s also excelled at college and passed all of his skills tests. I’m sure he will have a great future in the industry.”

Congratulations Steven and well done for all of your hard work!

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