Two apprentices based in Worcestershire are forging successful careers in construction after securing placements with Barratt Homes West Midlands at its Henbrook Gardens development in Stoke Prior.

Ben Thomas, 19 and Josh Sutton, 23, have both recently started as bricklaying and carpentry apprentices respectively and are based at the leading developer’s new homes site. In conjunction with their courses at Stephenson College, they are now learning practical skills with Barratt Homes West Midlands after finding its apprenticeship advert online.

Prior to his apprenticeship, Ben was studying Level One Bricklaying at Bournville College. During his time there, Ben discovered a true passion for bricklaying and found joy in doing a job that is beneficial to people. Ben now aspires to become a fully qualified bricklayer and to one day own his own business within the trade.

He is thoroughly enjoying his time working with Barratt Homes, he added:

“Barratt has given me a brilliant opportunity to develop my skills, I am very grateful for all the experience I gain here. On top of that, all of the team are incredibly supportive and give me useful guidance that will allow me to succeed.

“Taking this apprenticeship has definitely been the best route for me, being able to learn practically and academically at the same time is very helpful.”

After working in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, producing sculptures in bronze and silver, Josh was very keen to progress within the carpentry trade.

Over the last few months, Josh has been focussing on developing his skills and excelling within the field. He has been involved in lots of tasks such as fitting skirting boards, doors and staircases.

Leading housebuilder, Barratt Homes has been a significant part of Josh’s journey in construction, and he has loved every second working with the company, he said:

“I’ve made a fantastic decision coming to work with Barratt Homes. Barratt has helped me to build skills with a range of tools and learn about the housebuilding process. I’m also becoming more confident and really developing my communication skills.

“I love seeing my progression in this job. I am only getting more enthusiastic, efficient and more driven to produce a higher standard of work.”

Josh is more determined than ever to focus and climb the ladder to a successful career in carpentry, once his apprenticeship is complete, he is very keen to explore further training and development with hopes of securing a job for a subcontractor.

Adrian Farr, Managing Director at Barratt West Midlands said:

“It is incredibly important to Barratt Homes to invest in developing raw talent, we understand the value of having a team of diverse, talented people. We really love being able to give young people the opportunity to flourish in the trade.

“Ben and Josh have shown themselves to be wonderful additions to the team. We look forward to hearing about all their success in the future.”

To register an interest in any of the homes at Henbrook Gardens, please visit the on-site sales and information centre, open Monday 12.30pm to 5.30pm and Tuesday to Sunday between 10.00am to 5.30pm or visit the website at www.barratthomes.co.uk/henbrookgardens.

Alternatively call the sales line on 0333 355 8475.Considering a career in construction? Go to https://www.barrattcareers.co.uk/early-careers/apprentices to find out more on opportunities with Barratt Homes.