As schools, colleges and businesses across Swindon celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, (March 6-10), David Wilson Homes Apprentice of the Year is sharing his top tips on how to get an apprenticeship in the construction industry.
Apprentice of the Year Peter Wilson, who didn’t start his site management apprenticeship until he was 23, said: “I’ve seen for myself that apprenticeships are becoming increasingly popular. I know the number of young people applying for David Wilson’s apprenticeship programme is increasing every year.
“What I like about David Wilson Homes is it really trusts its apprentices and doesn’t just sit them in a corner with the simple jobs. Yes, it’s competitive but I hope I’ve shown what can be done by hard work and application.”
The company, which is building homes at Tadpole Garden Village in Swindon, says young people can get a head start in the competitive jobs market by following some simple steps.
Here are Peter’s top five tips on securing an apprenticeship in construction:
- Make sure you stand out
Apprenticeships are great because they give you the chance to earn while you learn. Make sure you stand out from the crowd by bringing something extra, for example by undertaking some work experience in a similar role. It will show you’re motivated and have some knowledge to bring to the job.
- Think about your qualifications
Before applying for any job, it is always good to see if there are any qualifications or certification you can do beforehand. If you’re looking for a job in housebuilding you can take the Construction Industry Training Board’s (CIBT) Skills Learning Exercise which can be completed online. Showing you’ve taken the initiative to do the qualification off your own back will show you’re really serious.
- Get your timing right
Most of our apprenticeships start in September, which means David Wilson Homes accepts online applications during the spring and summer. Now is the perfect time to start researching opportunities and getting your CV ready to apply.
- Get professional
Present yourself professionally; set up a specific email address for your correspondence and job applications and remember that first impressions count so make sure all your spelling and grammar is correct when applying. I always get someone else to proof read my CV and covering letter.
- Do your research
Whatever company you’re applying for an apprenticeship with, make sure you do your research. Being able to talk about the company’s current projects, past successes and organisational structure will show you’re serious about working for them. This type of information is usually easy to find on the company’s website.
David Wilson Homes is part of Barratt Developments and the apprenticeship programme sees learners work on an assigned development in the region for part of their working week, as well as taking part in classroom-based learning at a local college.
This year’s National Apprenticeship Week theme is Ladder of Opportunity focusing on the progression routes of apprenticeships, from traineeships through to higher and degree apprenticeships.
For more information about apprenticeships, undergraduate and graduate opportunities, please visit Barratt Developments’ recruitment website at www.barrattfuturetalent.co.uk.
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