I did the Multi-Trades programme before at the College and found that Carpentry was the most appealing trade. I enjoyed it more as it’s more creative and it was just something I was drawn to.
When I started Multi-Trades I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do but when I’d done more research into the trades I decided there was more I could get out of Carpentry.
I definitely want to get into management. When situations happen I’m always the one saying “We’re going to do this like this” or “We’ve got this amount of timber”.
I’ve learned a lot of joinery work and about the tools, what the different joints are used for, and the strength that they have. My skills have really improved. The cuts and measurements have to be really precise, and you really have to take your time.
There’s a lot of maths involved with the measurements, and it has to be on the dot and precise. You need to know calculations such as quarters, percentages, etc. I’ve just retaken my maths GCSE at College, and I’m feeling confident I’ll get a grade 4.
I originally applied for Redrow last year but unfortunately didn’t get a call back at that time. I’m one year more experienced, and I know that they’re well reputable for the work that they do. I’ve been to a few of their sites and I definitely knew it was the work I wanted to do.
This year I did the application for it and it was pretty straightforward. One of the apprenticeship managers visited the College to give a talk, and I stayed behind and talked to him afterward. I gave him my CV and cover letter and he said he’d like to give me an interview! I went to the interview, nervous as can be, and wanted to prove to them I could do it. It couldn’t have gone better! It went really well.
I’ll be staying away as part of the Redrow Academy and completing my training there on-site. I do plan to stay with Redrow and complete as many levels as I can; I’m hoping to do Level 4 in Site Management with them.
I’d definitely recommend someone to come to College and take up a trade. You’re always needed in the trade, especially carpenters, it’s a great career path.
