Joinery apprentice Oluwafeyikemi Joseph Popoola (known as Joseph) completed his Level 2 in Joinery at our Greater Manchester SkillCentre in Trafford and started his dream job at a local joinery firm.
With more need than ever to train learners in skilled trades like joinery and carpentry, Joseph’s success highlights the importance of investing in apprenticeships.
Back in March the government’s construction and hospitality shortage review showed that vacancies have risen strongly in construction trades, relative to pre-pandemic levels. With vacancies in construction 65% higher in November 2022 to January 2023, compared with the period before the pandemic from January to March 2020.
Joseph said: “I started the level 2 diploma in carpentry and joinery with little to no experience in the industry. I had a strong desire to develop the craft of Carpentry and Joinery, but I was not sure where to start.
“The Growth Company was that place and provided me with all the knowledge and support I needed. I had a great tutor who really encouraged me and developed my skills.
“Now I have completed the course I have found a job doing exactly what I want at a joinery firm. I really couldn’t have done it without this course and I’m truly grateful to everyone at the Growth Company for making this a reality.”
Craig Sandywell, Joseph’s tutor, said: “From day one Joseph showed great promise. He has completed my course in a timely manner with Distinction marks throughout. He is a model student with a fantastic future ahead of him.”
We have been training learners in construction and trades for over 30 years helping 1000s of learners.
“Apprenticeships like the ones we provide help fill the skills gaps and produce skilled tradespeople. Joseph’s success in getting his dream job is a great example of not only the opportunities out there, but also that there are talented and ambitious people who want to learn a trade.
“Apprenticeships help take pressure off employers, and make sure that all the learners get the support they need to master their craft.
“We’re incredibly proud of Joseph, and he joins a long history of successful learners from our SkillCentre. We wish him the best of luck.” Roosevelt Alexander, Director of the Greater Manchester SkillCentre
Looking to start your journey in learning a trade? We offer fully funded courses and apprenticeships across Greater Manchester and the North West.
