Testimonials

Akbar Zaman, Trainee, Redrow

What were you doing before becoming a Redrow apprentice?

I actually got into bricklaying by chance through an open day and ended up really enjoying my craft and as such stuck with that route. I was doing Level 1 and Level 2 [bricklaying] at Bucks College Group in Aylesbury and did this for two years.

Did you ever consider going to university?

Well, my first year of college I did accounting and finance but hated it. So, when I went to my college opening day, I tried out everything and fell in love with bricklaying and have never looked back.

What is it about bricklaying that you love?

I love building in general, but with bricklaying, I love building people’s homes as it is heartwarming to know I am contributing to helping people build their own memories in a new home.

Would you advise this as a route for others similar to you?

100%. There is no doubt that you should get out there and do an apprenticeship. Getting that industry experience – it’s just the best way to learn in my opinion. The getting paid aspect is just a bonus on top of all of the learning benefits that come with this opportunity.

What are your short-term/long-term aspirations?

My short-term goal is to finish the apprenticeship and gather as much experience as possible in order to make sure I use the apprenticeship well. In terms of my long-term future, I would love to be a project manager or even a site manager. If that doesn’t happen, it would be great to have my own gang of bricklayers and run my own business.

Consult source here.

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