From the 15th to the 21st of May 2023, organisations across the country will come together to celebrate Learning at Work Week with the theme ‘Create the Future’. Coordinated by the Campaign for Learning, this annual event aims to promote lifelong learning in the workplace.
Pexhurst are proud to participate in this event by highlighting the success of our apprenticeship schemes. Through our commitment to fostering a culture of continuous learning and development, Pexhurst are shaping the future of our workforce and the wider industry.
Pexhurst offer a Level 3 Team Leader/Supervisor (Built Environment) Apprenticeship programme, delivered in partnership with Citrus Training. Director at Pexhurst, Nick Tagliarini who oversees the apprenticeship programme added “Our partnership with the right training partners is fundamental to the success of our apprentices in giving them the right support, advice and guidance throughout.”
The comprehensive year-long programme provides apprentices with an NVQ qualification, earned through successful assessments at the programme’s end, allowing them to apply for a Gold Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card. The programme features a dynamic blend of learning, with four-hour virtual classroom sessions held each month to explore management theories, while the second aspect is focused on hands-on, practical applications in the workplace.
Pexhurst caught up with Trainee Site Managers Bobby Palmer and Alby Gumble who joined the most recent intakes, as well as Jake Palmer who is nearing completion of the programme:
How are you finding your apprenticeship programme so far?
Bobby: It was hard to begin with as I am new to the industry, so it took me a few weeks to get my head around the role as site manager, but I have progressed a lot already and learnt a lot from watching and listening to others, so I am starting to feel a lot more confident in my role.
Alby: I am finding the programme very enjoyable so far, it is challenging but it is also very rewarding. I hope to carry on this journey and achieve more each day as there is always more learning to do, especially when you are on site meeting different people.
Why did a career in construction interest you?
Bobby: During school, I was not sure what I wanted to do. I went to college to study electrical installation and repair which was what first made me want to go into the construction industry. My dad and brother also work at Pexhurst, and they both really enjoy it, so that helped in my decision to become a Trainee Site Manager with the company.
Alby: I have always been a very hands-on person and have previously done an apprenticeship so I knew what I could expect. I have always loved seeing how construction can completely transform buildings around London, and I believe there is no better way to get into construction than to learn through an apprenticeship, whilst making an enjoyable career out of it.
What was your motivation for doing an apprenticeship?
Bobby: I believe that an apprenticeship is the most efficient way of working and learning at the same time. The experience that you can gain from being on the job rather than in a classroom goes a long way.
Alby: What really motivates me is knowing that in construction there is no limit to what you can achieve. Starting at a site and seeing the difference that a couple of months makes really puts my job into perspective.
Jake: I think everybody is motivated by different factors, however I personally motivated myself by thinking about my future and what I would like to have achieved by the time I hit 40. I want to look back and feel satisfied with everything I have accomplished.
What part of the role have you found most enjoyable so far, and why?
Bobby: Being a Trainee Site Manager is what I have enjoyed the most so far, so that I can help others when they need and learn from my mentors and sub-contractors about the different trades within the industry.
Alby: My most enjoyable moments are being on-site getting hands-on experience from other site managers and learning each aspect of the job. It really helps create an image of who I want to be, and who I can be by working hard in everything I do.
Jake: The most enjoyable part of my role so far would have been completing my most recent project, the project altogether was very exciting with plenty of detail and seeing it all come together with a very positive response from the client was an extremely enjoyable moment.
What advice would you give to others going into the profession?
Bobby: The advice I would give to people joining the construction industry is to never hesitate to ask questions when you don’t understand something or need help from someone with more experience than you.
Alby: My advice would be to come to work ready and motivated, put yourself out there, and ask questions to your colleagues and sub-contractors on site. Being in this profession will take hard work and determination but everyone can do it if they put their mind to it.
Where do you hope to be in the next few years on your Pexhurst career journey?
Bobby: Within the next few years, I hope to be managing my own site and hopefully working towards my Level 6 Diploma in Construction Management.
Alby: I hope to be a full-time site manager and run my own sites, I am also particularly interested in project managing, but I would like to get some years under my belt as a site manager first.
How has your experience of the apprenticeship been, especially balancing study with work?
Jake: Overall, my apprenticeship experience has been great! I learn something different and face new challenges everyday which keeps me entertained. I found it tricky at first balancing work and study, however with time I found the perfect balance.
What skills have you gained from doing the apprenticeship, to date?
Jake: Through my apprenticeship I have learnt plenty of skills including how to manage my time efficiently, how to lead a team, how to motivate a team and plenty of construction related skills and knowledge from experience on site.
Would you recommend the apprenticeship to others looking to achieve the same goals?
Jake: I would definitely recommend the apprenticeship route to those who have similar interests as myself, if you enjoy problem solving and being involved in lively and motivating environments, then it is definitely for you!
Pexhurst looks forward to celebrating Learning at Work Week by continuing our commitment to providing a culture of continuous learning and development, and supporting the team’s apprentices in achieving their career goals, while shaping the future of the industry. Keep up the good work!
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