Daniel Jefferies is an apprentice on the Level 2 Carpentry Apprenticeship course and works for Tribune Shopfitters.
Congratulating Daniel, Gary Duchesne, managing director, Tribune Shopfitters, said: “When Daniel first walked into Tribune Shopfitters for his interview, he was visibly nervous, not exuding much confidence. Despite this, he expressed a keen interest in woodworking. Recognising a spark in him, I decided to bring him on board as an apprentice.
Daniel was initially reserved. However, the feedback was unanimously positive: the team found him likeable, diligent, and eager to learn from the very beginning.
Daniel has consistently shown a strong desire to acquire new skills and has quickly grasped various aspects of the trade. His knowledge and expertise have been on a steady rise, and he has since emerged from his shell, engaging actively with the team. He is evolving into an excellent carpenter and has become an indispensable member of our crew.
We are immensely pleased to have Daniel with us; his contributions have been invaluable. Our gratitude extends to Mid Kent College for their unwavering support of all our apprentices. A special mention goes to Ian Young, whose exceptional support and communication have greatly benefited both our apprentices and Tribune Shopfitters.”
Ian Young, apprentice trainer at MidKent College said that Daniel started in September 2022, and has an excellent attendance for attending college despite having to travel by two buses to College from the isle of Sheppey. “He leaves home at 6am and arrives at 8.20am ready for an 8.30am start, come rain or shine. Daniel is the first Apprentice in his group to complete all his knowledge, practical, and end tests at college. He has also submitted all his 14 pieces of site evidence, Daniel will now be put forward for his EPA, completing his Apprenticeship 3 months early. Throughout his apprenticeship, he has shown outstanding dedication and commitment and has been a pleasure to nurture and mentor. We look forward to Daniel progressing to achieve his Carpentry Level 3 in September.”
Daniel said: “I have always enjoyed practical learning and knew that an apprenticeship would suit me. I was, however, sceptical about attending college one day a week because I did not enjoy the school environment. However, I couldn’t have been more wrong. My experience with Mid-Kent College has been a very positive one – from enrolment through to the classroom and the clarity, guidance and commitment of my tutor who I am very grateful. Learning in an environment where all apprentices want to learn the same skills has enabled me to learn quickly and effectively which in turn has strengthened my skills for on-site working. In addition to this, my boss and colleagues have been very supportive, and they have all in turn mentored me. It has been an invaluable experience enabling me to develop practical skills ready for the workplace. The balance of college work to on-site work is very manageable and I am glad that I chose to complete an apprenticeship to gain the qualifications required for my profession I genuinely believe that this has been a much more successful route for me than full-time learning would have been.”
