The apprentices are thrilled that they decided to pursue a construction apprenticeship.
Two Buckingham Group Contracting construction apprentices have been instrumental in constructing the Southern Connector Road.
Josh and Francisco have worked with Swindon Borough Council’s project officers in supervising the construction and designing the new key relief road. They have impressed site managers with their abilities.
Josh has excelled in supporting training inductions, while Francisco has prepared CAD drawings and provided valuable guidance on drone software.
Josh and Francisco spoke about why they are happy they decided to pursue a construction apprenticeship.
Josh Baker, 21, who is doing a level 4 (flexi) apprenticeship in construction, said: “School wasn’t for me and engaging was hard, but I always knew I wanted a job in the construction industry.
“I started as a labourer for Buckingham and was then offered a role in the site supervisors department as an apprentice. It’s broadened my outlook and given me greater confidence, communication and time management skills.”
Francisco Cerda Pereya, 19, who is doing the same construction apprenticeship, said: “From arriving 11 years ago not speaking English to excelling at college, I then had a tough choice to whether to go to university or go down the apprenticeship route.
“I’m so glad I picked to do an apprenticeship—it’s a proper job with real prospects and I get to spend a lot of my time in work with leading engineers and doing quality assurance tasks. I’ve grown in the months here at SCR and I’m enjoying it.”
Councillor Chris Watts, Swindon Borough Council’s cabinet member for the environment and transport, said: “It’s fantastic to see first-hand what local apprentices have to offer for such impactful highways schemes in the Borough.”
He also mentioned the Apprentifest event coming up. He said: “Anyone who would like to learn more about apprenticeships in Swindon should pop along to ApprentiFest at the STEAM Museum on 7 June, where a host of organisations will be available to talk to prospective apprentices—and some will even have vacancies available.”
Apprentifest arrives at STEAM – Museum of the Great Western Railway tomorrow, where the public can drop in between 4pm and 6.30pm and learn more about apprenticeship opportunities.
Prospective attendees can register for the event via the Apprentifest Eventbrite page.
