APPRENTICESHIP FOCUS
Rory McAinsh: Yard Direct Marketing Apprentice
In September 2023, 16- year old Rory McAinsh from Stenhousemuir, Falkirk, Scotland, began his Marketing apprenticeship with Yard Direct Ltd, a specialist supplier of roof windows based in Stirling. He has been actively
involved in the marketing and supply of roof windows and a range of other construction products to contractors. He has become a key player in recommending the right window fittings and securing competitive prices, and this hands-on experience has boosted his skills in sales and marketing.
Over the course of his apprenticeship, McAinsh’s knowledge of construction products, including different types of roof windows and installation methods, has expanded significantly. This newfound expertise empowers him to provide valuable advice to Yard Direct’s customers, elevating their experience when ordering construction supplies.
A typical day involves juggling work tasks, responding to customer inquiries, and managing coursework.
He has benefited from the mentorship of his supervisors and experienced colleagues at Yard Direct, who have given him guidance and shared their
knowledge.Shadowing them has enabled him to grasp the essential procedures and best practices in the marketing of construction products.
He says: “My advice to other apprentices would be to take everything you can, absorb everything you learn so you can get the absolute most out of your apprenticeship. With that, hopefully, you can progress along your journey even further.”
Joshua Purcel: Silverton Builders Merchants, Apprentice
In September, Joshua Purcel, whose family backgound is the construction industry, joined Silverton Builders Merchants at their head office based in Kirby Le Soken as an apprentice. Working across a variety
of roles, from sales and customer service to stocking up building materials and managing inventory, Purcel’s knowledge of Silverton’s business operations is growing, and so is his confidence.
“I’ve been involved with sales and now have a wider understanding of construction materials and what they’re used for – including products I didn’t even know existed. I’ve also gained an understanding of the Kerridge system used to
manage transactions, and I believe I’m getting better at conversing with customers and steadily building up my confidence in doing so,” he says of his apprenticeship journey so far. While many of his peers may be heading to university, Purcel has a different perspective: “I do not believe university genuinely sets you up for life, yet I’m willing to be proven wrong. The fact that you get both experience and a qualification – with none of the huge student debt that university graduates often get - makes an apprenticeship worth doing.”
“I’m interested in staying with Silverton after my apprenticeship is over, but as it is early days I’ll need some time to reflect and figure out my further goals,” he says. “Personally, this is the most satisfied I’ve been within education and employment since I started working.”
Ethan Edwards: Silverton Builders Merchant Apprentice
18-year-old Ethan Edwards from Colchester completed his A-levels in 2022. Initially trying his hand as a chef, he quickly realised the lack of opportunities for progression in that field. He found the apprenticeship
route appealing for its practical learning and career advancement possibilities, and joined Silverton Builders Merchant in Colchester as an apprentice in September 2023, seeking training and work experience without the potential financial burden of university education. His day-to-day activities involve loading and unloading vehicles, picking and packing orders, serving customers, and processing invoices. Edwards acknowledged the crucial role played by his mentor, Jonathon Hill, in supporting him and building his confidence throughout his apprenticeship.
The apprenticeship’s balance between work and study is a key highlight, he says. “I feel that I am building a strong foundation for my future career, and that I have a lot of options and opportunities ahead of me.”
Ollie Harper Nash: Mathewson & Rosemond Ltd, Apprentice
Working as a builders’ merchant apprentice with Leeds-based commercial plumbing and pipeline merchant, Mathewson & Rosemond Ltd, Ollie Harper Nash has discovered a passion for hands-on, practical
work. He wanted to do something that would challenge him beyond his comfort zone, and the apprenticeship has proven to be the right mix of practical learning and academic study. Harper Nash says of his working experience
April 2024
www.buildersmerchantsjournal.net
so far: “My responsibilities include overseeing document scanning, managing goods receiving, and providing valuable assistance to the warehouse manager. Of course, I have ambitions extending beyond warehousing and in due time I would like to explore other facets of the business, including sales, accounts, procurement, and e-commerce,” he adds. Harper Nash is learning the value of paying attention to detail and maintaining accurate data, recognising that even minor errors can have far-reaching implications. He is demonstrating growth in teamwork and has acquired an understanding of the diverse skill sets of his colleagues and how to work and communicate with them effectively to deliver a great team performance.
Mentors Oliver Wilson and Cameron Smith - who are also his line managers - are guiding him through the intricacies of the business and sharing their vast knowledge and expertise of the builders merchant sector.
Harper Nash says: “I’ve always preferred hands-on learning over traditional classrooms. The apprenticeship approach allows me to learn and apply the skills in a real-world setting. I can see immediate results and make a visible impact on the business.”
Lee Wedemire: Gardner & Scardifield , Apprentice
Lee Wedemire 45, joined the merchant sector after a long career in garden centre management and sales management for large wholesale and manufacturing companies. A married father of one, he was prompted by
the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic to seek a change that would afford him more time with his family.
Despite lacking prior experience in construction, Wedemire ‘s interest in the industry was sparked by an opportunity to manage a small branch at Gardner and Scardified. He recognised the potential for personal and professional growth in this new venture.
“My new role allows me to tap into my previous experience, but it also highlighted areas that I could enhance my skills set and bridge existing knowledge gaps,” he says. “My apprenticeship focuses on operational management, giving me valuable insights into time and change management, so I can implement effective strategies at branch level.” Looking ahead, Wedemire envisions advancing within Gardner & Scardified, aspiring to roles in buying or health and safety management. He plans to pursue further education, potentially undertaking a level 7 course upon completing his current apprenticeship. BMJ
11
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68 |
Page 69 |
Page 70 |
Page 71 |
Page 72 |
Page 73 |
Page 74 |
Page 75 |
Page 76 |
Page 77 |
Page 78 |
Page 79 |
Page 80 |
Page 81 |
Page 82 |
Page 83 |
Page 84 |
Page 85 |
Page 86 |
Page 87 |
Page 88
