Taelor - 

I went to College after School, but I left the course as I didn’t enjoy it and I’ve found IT is more of hobby. I did some agency work in a factory doing packing and then joined Nationwide Engineering on a Kickstart placement as a labourer. I decided to join the apprenticeship scheme as a brick layer, which should take 2.5 years to complete, and I go to Salisbury College 1 day a week.

I knew about apprenticeships, but I thought the money wouldn’t be good, but I’ve managed to save money for driving lessons and the team have been great in helping me to get a bike so I can cycle to work when I first started. My advice is to do it now and not to hesitate, it’s the greatest thing you can do with your life, don’t hesitate, and get stuck in.

Shaun –

I had a job before my apprenticeship as a Groundworker, as I finished School in March 2020 early as we had no exams. I joined College 3 days a week doing a Level 1 Carpentry course, which is when the lecturer told me about apprenticeships. So, when I finished Level 1, I started this Level 2 apprenticeship.

I feel I learn more on site than at College as I am learning from other people and getting used to the site work, things change rapidly.

My advice is to start as soon as you can, the earlier you start the more money you can get back, and the quicker you can be qualified. Sometimes you need to look past the apprenticeship part and once you’re qualified you will earn more.