Advertisement

‘I did an apprenticeship - now I want to set up my own business’

Sam, who is doing a horticulture apprenticeship, plans to start his own business
Sam, who is doing a horticulture apprenticeship, plans to start his own business

THIS week is National Apprenticeship Week and each day the T&A is shining a light on those who’ve benefited from an apprenticeship. Meet today’s apprentices, from Shipley College:

Name: Sam Maston. Age: 29. Apprentice Level: Level 2. Company you work for: JRR Gardens

Tell us about yourself: I am a gardening apprentice working for JRR in Bradford. I enjoy working outside and caring for amenity areas. I’ve been an apprentice 19 months.

What’s your apprenticeship in and why did you choose it? Horticulture. I chose this as I like to be outside. I like to do physical work and, most of all, I enjoy learning new things.

What’s your average working week? Driving the van to sites around Leeds, Bradford and Calderdale. Undertaking gardening duties including grass and hedge cutting and general maintenance of commercial sites.

Why did you opt to do an apprenticeshipp? To earn while I learn.

What’s most rewarding about it?I meet lots of different people from many walks of life.

For someone thinking about doing an apprenticeship what advice would you give? For young people it’s a good option to start earning money, but also ideal for people of all ages.

What are your career plans? To start my own business.

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Suhaana enjoys working with children
Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Suhaana enjoys working with children

Suhaana enjoys working with children (Image: Submitted)

Name: Suhaana. Age: 20. Apprentice Level: Level 3. Company you work for: The Academy, St James Primary School.

How long have you been an apprentice? I started my Level 2 Early Years Practitioner course in 2021 then progressed to Level 3.

What is your apprenticeship in and why did you choose this sector?Level 3 Early Years Educator. I chose to work in a school as I have a passion to support children and help to meet their needs.

What does your average working week look like? I work from 8.30am-3.30 four days a week and attend College one day a week, 9am-4.30pm.

Why did you opt for an apprenticeship rather than A Levels or a BTEC ? I wanted to work and study at the same time, it gives me a lot of experience and allows me to make a living.

What’s the most rewarding thing about your apprenticeship? Achieving my goals. Watching the children have a good foundation, caring for them and answering their questions, by doing so I’m helping them develop their confidence and self esteem. I’ve also enjoyed my college experience and have been well supported by assessor and my tutor.

If a friend was thinking about an apprenticeship what advice would you give? Keep on top of your college work and try your hardest at your work setting, as you may be offered a job once you’re qualified.

What are your career plans? I have been given a permanent job at my placement. I would also like to carry on my studies once I’ve completed Level 3 apprenticeship.