TGt Meets... Chris Beard
We've been chatting to carpentry apprentices at Swindon College about how the scheme is great for them.
Why did you choose an Apprenticeship over university?
I was unsure of what to do after college. I knew I didn’t want to go to university and the financial benefits of an Apprenticeship are a huge bonus for me.
How did you decide which Apprenticeship to do?
Carpentry is the family business, so it was an easy decision.
What are the benefits of doing an Apprenticeship?
Earning whilst learning – this is really beneficial to me.
What are you doing to develop within your role and company?
Learning enough to keep the family business thriving.
What’s your biggest achievement to date?
Providing big jobs to customers – I have recently done a set of six-foot gates for a customer.
How do you spend your free time?
I spend time with my girlfriend, we go out a lot. I also like staying in, watching tv and films.
What’s the hardest part about doing an Apprenticeship?
I find the theory hard and being back at college.
What has doing an Apprenticeship meant for you as a person?
Learning a lot of different skills so I am more prepared for more complex jobs in the future.
What advice would you give someone making the decision to go to university or to do an Apprenticeship?
Do something you are passionate about and enjoy.
What’s the one thing you will take away from your apprenticeship once it’s over?
I have learnt a lot of new things and the skills covered in my course.