ESC Apprentice Thriving in Construction Industry

Reuben Norton, an apprentice at East Sussex College, has demonstrated exceptional proficiency in his Level 2 Site Carpentry course and is now actively engaged in the industry.

Reuben is currently working as an apprentice for F R Building and Carpentry LTD and has been studying alongside his Apprenticeship since September 2023. He previously completed a college-based Carpentry course at the College a year prior.

Speaking to the College about his experience as an ESC apprentice, Reuben said, “I am loving working as an apprentice getting hands-on experience whilst also getting paid. Learning on the job is far superior and is so much more enjoyable than just being at college. It also benefits massively being surrounded by talented tradespeople and learning all their tips and tricks, and being able to then develop your own.

“I decided to go into an Apprenticeship as I didn't really know what to do when I left school. I knew I really enjoyed the world of construction as I spent a lot of time at work with my dad when I was a kid and spent the summer after school labouring.”

He added, “Becoming an apprentice has been such a benefit in life, like being treated like an adult and getting to experience the real working world at a young age. It helps you progress so much. I could not recommend an Apprenticeship more to anyone. It's so great learning how to do your job firsthand and being able to complete and do actual work yourself seeing the final product, it's truly amazing.”

Reuben spoke about the support from staff at the College throughout his apprenticeship and emphasised his long-term ambitions in the industry.

“The College has a brilliant team around to help and support you," said Reuben. “You have an assessor come out and check on you and your work every now and then, and my assessor has been such an aid especially at college he has helped so much with my coursework making it so much easier and such a lighter load.

“After I am done with my Apprenticeship, I want to move onto a higher level Apprenticeship with the end goal of being able to have the options of going into building management; in the long run as site manager or projects manager, something along those lines.”

If you’re thinking about starting an apprenticeship and want to find out more, click here for more information.