"I've had a lot of fun – while learning too!"

Learn more about getting started in construction.

I started out as a joiner, but decided to become an Interior Systems apprentice with the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) after deciding it would be a better fit for my skills.

The Interior Systems apprenticeship is designed to give apprentices like me a sound working knowledge of the construction skills needed to work with suspended ceiling fixing, relocatable partitioning and drylining fixing.

I’m learning how to install ceilings and fit partitions to divide large areas into rooms in commercial developments such as offices, shops and hospitals.

This variety in projects is matched by the geographical spread of work. I work for for Acorn Partitioning & Storage Systems Ltd in Lincoln, and one of the best things about the apprenticeship is the travelling – you can go anywhere in the UK for a job. The best place I’ve been so far is Newcastle.

Freedom

I really like the freedom of college. The tutors treat you like an adult. My time at college and out in the field have taught me how to do the job properly and given me the skills required to match what the client needs

Acorn have been great to me too. All throughout the apprenticeship, I’ve met a lot of great people and had a lot of fun – while learning too!

The most satisfying job so far was a project where I was allowed to work on it by myself. I had to construct an office using everything I’d learned so far. It was a big challenge – but I’m happy to say I did it.

Becoming the boss

I’m happy with the trade I’m learning and I’d like to continue with it at Acorn. My long term aim is to have my own company – and hire apprentices to pass on my knowledge, in the same way Acorn and the Construction Industry Training Board have with me.