Wrexham architectural technician urges young people looking at apprenticeships “to go for it”

A trio of North Wales trainees have shared their top tips to those considering a construction career.

Thomas Miller, from Wrexham, Ruby Jones, from Mold and Matthew Parry, from Prestatyn are embarking on very different careers at Flintshire-based Anwyl Homes and are at various stages of their personal development.

Ruby is just starting out on her HR apprenticeship, while Matthew is training in site management.

Thomas has just graduated with a degree in architectural design technology.

They have all benefitted from Anwyl’s earn and learn training schemes, which sees apprentices and other trainees paid to gain work experience and recognised qualifications.

To mark National Apprenticeship Week (February 5-11) the trio have shared their experiences and route into their chosen careers.

Architectural technician Thomas joined Anwyl straight after completing his A-Levels in 2018.

He has since gained a HNC in construction & the built environment and BSc (Hons) Degree from Wrexham University, from which he was presented with the ‘Outstanding Graduating Student’ Award.

He’s now furthering his career prospects by undertaking Anwyl’s ‘developing leadership’ course.

“I liked the idea of being able to gain ‘on the job’ experience while also gaining a qualification,” explained Thomas.

“My grandad was a joiner by trade and, from a very young age, I had an interest in helping him and giving ideas on the design work, taking measurements, making models, and helping on the actual build. I think that’s where my passion for design began.

“There are so many different career paths within housebuilding. From my experience, Anwyl Homes have guided me from a young age, proving that they are not afraid to give responsibility to younger people who are just starting out in the industry.”

Thomas’s advice to other young people looking at apprenticeships is “to go for it.”

Anwyl; Apprentices; Ruby Jones and Matthew Parry (Picture Mandy Jones)

He added: “I believe it is the best way to gain experience of the work environment from a young age.”

Ruby joined Anwyl as a HR apprentice having gained outstanding GCSEs and A-Level results. As part of her apprenticeship, she will complete a Level 3 course from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) in partnership with Coleg Cambria Business School.

She said: “Being able to gain office experience, as well as learning and gaining qualifications, really appealed to me. I can apply my knowledge from college into what I do at work.

“I enjoy being a HR apprentice because each day is always different and it is a dynamic environment to work in. Anwyl offers so many different training opportunities, which will help me to progress in my career and develop skills I can transfer to other situations.

“An apprenticeship is an amazing opportunity, especially with Anwyl. If university is not for you but you do want to continue learning, an apprenticeship could be the answer.”

Matthew, a trainee assistant site manager, has already completed an NVQ Level 3 & BTEC Level 3 in construction & environment.

He is now completing his NVQ Level 4 alongside a HNC in construction at Bersham College, Wrexham.

He said: “I personally believe apprenticeships have more to offer than going to university, as a company is investing in you, to provide you with the education and experience whilst working.”

For anyone considering a similar career path, Matthew added: “Find an apprenticeship, 100%. It allows you to excel in your job role and gain experience alongside further education.”