The 14th annual week-long celebration of apprenticeships aims to showcase the impact apprenticeships can have on communities, local businesses and regional economies and how they all benefit from the impact of apprenticeships.
The theme for the week this year is ‘Build the Future’.
At Pobl, we’ll be marking the occasion by sharing stories each day from apprentices who are currently employed on our development sites across Wales. Employment opportunities such as apprenticeships are an important part of the community benefits that our new developments offer to local communities.
This is a great example of how housing organisations and contractors can work together to create training and employment opportunities that will not just benefit local young people, but also the future of the sector, and demonstrates our commitment to making a real difference in the communities where we work.
Shay Griffiths
Shay is a Civil Engineering apprentice working for Jones Brothers (Henllan) Ltd at our Tycroes development. He has been with the company for almost two years.
After leaving school, Shay knew he didn’t want to go to university, but was unsure what his next steps were. He took on a summer job as a labourer with Jones Brothers and was offered an opportunity to stay on as an apprentice.
“I’m working as a site engineer whilst studying for my Level 3 BTEC in Civil Engineering. I now know that I want to pursue a career in this industry, so next year I will progress to my HNC.”
Shay’s daily tasks vary depending on what the senior engineer on site needs his assistance with.
“I am given a list at the start of the week: at the moment I am marking out the downfall of the pipes for one of the houses, but my duties also include surveying and setting out.”
One of the biggest benefits of his hands-on learning is getting to see new technology being put to use:
“I have got to experience new technology and machines, for example, seeing how they can use robotics to set out a wrap footing. It’s so much easier than doing it all by hand!”
Reflecting on his experiences so far, Shay is extremely positive about his apprenticeship:
“I’d say that I learn more on site than in college, you’ve got to be there to really experience it. Jones Brothers have been really good, supporting me throughout by helping me out when I needed it. I’d recommend doing an apprenticeship to anyone who is considering their options – it’s the way to go!”
“We are proud to see our apprentices gain the knowledge and experience required to help them succeed on their career path with Jones Brothers (Henllan) Ltd.” Andrew Giles, Quality Compliance Manager said at Jones Brothers (Henllan) Ltd
