A local builder is continuing its pledge to inspire the next generation into the construction industry in the North West ahead of National Apprenticeship Week (February 6 – 12).
Tyler Williams, aged 20, is one of Redrow’s latest recruits, joining the team at one of the home builder’s newest and largest developments Daresbury Garden Village.
The joinery apprentice, from Runcorn will now spend his 18-month long apprenticeship working alongside Redrow’s site management team and under the guidance of an experienced sub-contractor.
Open to anyone over the age of 16, Redrow’s apprenticeship scheme covers key housing trades, including bricklaying and groundworks, as well as administration and technical roles within its offices.
Trade apprentices’ time is split between working on site and college-based study that will provide the apprentice with essential industry qualifications.
“I would highly recommend Redrow’s apprenticeship scheme for anyone thinking of starting in the construction industry,” said Tyler, who lives with his parents in Runcorn.
“My day start starts on site at 8am. I help to bring in all the materials needed for the day into each room of the property.
“For the rest of the day I help the joiners with their tasks which include hanging doors, fitting windows and building staircases. I have a day release to Riverside College in Widnes working on both practical and theory.
“Daresbury is a huge site, so it is a great place to start off my apprenticeship.”
With plans for up to 1,100 new homes, subject to further planning consents, Daresbury Garden Village is expected to take around 10 years to complete and will be interspersed with open spaces, green corridors and areas for formal and informal play.
The apprentices are all employed by Redrow but supervised and mentored by established sub-contractors who teach them their trade. They also come under the overall supervision of Jim McDonald, senior project manager for Daresbury-based Redrow NW, who is involved from the initial process.
“We received the best applications and then set up interviews, the whole process takes around seven weeks,” said Jim. “Anyone in the North West and North Wales area can apply and our website lists the current vacancies.
“If new recruits are under 18 or can’t drive, we try and keep on the same site, so they don’t have to travel too far from home. Any older apprentices who can travel, we try to move around sites so they can vary their experiences.”
Jim, who began his career with Redrow in 1994 as an assistant site manager, feels apprenticeships are very important, so much so that his role overseeing the new recruits is something he does as an extra to his day-to-day job.
“My colleague Sammy Vranch and I look after the apprentices on a voluntary basis, as we both feel very passionately about the scheme.”
For further information about becoming an apprentice with Redrow and other career opportunities visit: www.redrowcareers.co.uk
