Natalie Fairley: Breaking Barriers in Carpentry

We recently chatted with Natalie Fairley, who just achieved a distinction in her Level 2 Carpentry EPA. Read on to learn more about her apprenticeship journey, future plans, and what it’s like being a woman in a mostly male field.

Starting the Apprenticeship
Natalie told us, “I applied online through the Skills Group website. After chatting with the enquiries team, we set up an Initial Assessment meeting with Ange, who’s now my Apprenticeship Coordinator. She gave me a tour of the training centre and explained everything. It was super easy.”

“At first, I was nervous because of my age, but that didn’t stop me! It actually pushed me to give my all and prove that age doesn’t matter when starting an apprenticeship.”

Proud Moments
When asked about her proudest moments, Natalie said, “Carpentry is so rewarding. You see the difference you make quickly, and seeing your hard work come together is amazing.”
She added, “Renovating my house from the ground up is my biggest achievement. Finishing my Level 2 with a Distinction was the cherry on top!”

Working in a Male-Dominated Industry
Natalie admits there are challenges in a male-dominated field, but she finds it empowering. “I’ve gotten a lot of support and respect from my peers and mentors, which has been really encouraging,” she said.

Future Plans
After renovating her house, Natalie discovered a passion for property development. “I can see myself doing this in the future, ideally in a warm country,” she shared.

Experience with Skills Group
Natalie’s experience with Skills Group has been great. “I’ve settled in well with all the support from my coordinator and trainers. I’m excited to start my Level 3 qualification, improve my skills, gain more experience, meet new people, and explore new opportunities,” she said.

Support from Her Coordinator
Having her coordinator, Ange, has been a huge help. “Ange is great. She’s my go-to person if I have any questions about my apprenticeship that my employer can’t answer,” Natalie explained.

Natalie Fairley’s story shows how determination and passion can break barriers in carpentry. Her journey is an inspiration, proving that with the right support and attitude, you can excel in any field.

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