Our most recent cohort of Technical Apprentices, who started in January 2020, are excelling that much so, that they received our Values Champions Award this quarter.
Aaron Wathall and Sam Bartram began their apprenticeship journey during an uncertain time due to Covid-19. They studied for college remotely and adapted to the Covid-19 regulations within the working environment extremely well, showing resilience and determination.
Although, both were able to attend site; Aaron is based at Eastglade, a housing development with Nottingham City Homes for Nottingham City Council and Sam is based at Northgate, a housing development in partnership with Newark & Sherwood Homes.
Nick Murphy, Chief Executive of Nottingham City Homes, said: “At NCH we’re big supporters of apprenticeships and they’re something that we’ll always champion – being named as one of the top 100 apprenticeship employers in the country ourselves. Giving people like Aaron and Sam the opportunity to develop their skills, learn and gain real experience is invaluable.”
“The new homes that are being built on the former Eastglade School site are going to be great – providing much-needed affordable homes to Nottingham families who need them the most. I’m delighted that Aaron is working on site helping to build these properties.”
Apprentices have always been a big part of the Woodhead way and we take great pride in investing in people, giving them the opportunity to thrive.
It was clear that both Aaron and Sam started to build their confidence and skill sets early on, as they impressed both mentors and teachers at college and on site.
Robert Woodhead Ltd.’s Business Support Manager, Matt Bust, who is mentoring both Apprentices commented on their progression so far,
“They have integrated into the business extremely well, right from the beginning. I have received fantastic feedback from both their tutors at college and mentors on site. You can see that they have a clear passion for the construction industry and their skills are continuing to develop as well as their confidence. It is a delight to see our company values shining through their projects and everyday tasks.”
Aaron showed determination and had the confidence to approach his tutor at college asking how he could improve his grades, and if he was able to re-write an essay.
“It has been a great experience so far in all areas of the business that I have worked in, and some of the knowledge I have picked up during my apprenticeship has been priceless”
Sam also demonstrated courage as he would continue to always ask for more help if he was struggling, resulting in his knowledge of the construction industry growing, as well as his confidence.
“It is a great opportunity for me as I’m learning every day and I am being supported immensely by Matt, Woodhead’s, and my mentors at college. I am really enjoying my time with the group; every day is different, and I can’t wait to see where it takes me in the company.”
There are many benefits of being on an apprenticeship programme including, gaining the wide range of skills through different sectors in the construction industry and first-hand experience.
“The knowledge and experience gained from the apprenticeship can help you to decide on your future career, as you will have discovered a passion for a certain sector in the industry.”
Both Aaron and Sam have finished learning about Project Management and Site Management and now will be moving onto their next rotation in Quantity Surveying.
