When I left secondary school after staying on at 6th form, I applied to Telford College, securing a place on the National Progression award in carpentry and joinery course. Having passed this part of the course I progressed onto the work working skill, this gave me the opportunity to work at Barratt on a four-week work experience placement at the Amberlea site in Prestonpans.
During this time I worked with one of the 1st year Apprentices, this allowed me to see first hand what it would be like as an Apprentice learning their trade. I really enjoyed my time there, in fact I enjoyed it so much and found it to be a really positive experience that it made me look into the Barratt Apprenticeship Programme. I also thought this was a great opportunity as a female to come into this type of working environment, learn my trade and gain qualifications. I applied for an Apprenticeship in joinery through the Barratt careers website and I was so happy when I was accepted for an interview and was successful in getting the job.
I knew then that I had a career in front of me in something that I really wanted to do with a large well known company who had a good reputation. My work experience at Barratt was a real insight into the company and the job. The people I worked with were great, very supportive and the experience helped me understand the day to day working environment as well as the trade I wanted to do.
Although the work can be hard at times, I work with some great people and they help and support me in whatever I am doing. I also love the fact that for a female it is completely different to other jobs and I have learnt so much in a short space of time. I enjoy my job so much as I work with lots of different people who take the time to teach me how to be a successful joiner and treat me as part of the team. I could not have asked to work with a better team.
I would really recommend the programme as you combine your college work with site experience, a great way to learn both the practical and theory whilst gaining your qualification.
At the moment I want to continue working toward my qualification, expand my knowledge, learn my trade and be the best joiner I can be. I intend to stay with Barratt as I feel really proud to say I work for them, I know they will help me achieve my goals and if I decide later once I am qualified that I want to progress in my career the opportunities are there for me with this company.
