8th February 2021
It’s National Apprenticeship Week, and the theme this year is Build The Future – which is exactly what Jonathan Freeman has been doing at Apex Consulting since joining as an apprentice in our Sheffield office in August 2018.
We caught up with Jonathan to find out about his experience as an apprentice, why he chose this route into work and what he’d say to anyone considering an apprenticeship in the construction industry today.
How did you come across the opportunity to join Apex Consulting as an apprentice?
I was studying at Sheffield College at the time and thinking about my next steps. I was originally considering routes into renewable energy engineering and thought I would have to undertake a degree for this. After looking at the UKGov website, I found the apprenticeship at Apex Consulting. After some research into the company and industry, I decided it was a great opportunity to jump into the construction industry.
What was the first project you worked on?
The very first project I worked on was an extension in Whirlow, but the first major project I worked on was the Danum Gallery in Doncaster (pictured right). I really enjoyed working on the Doncaster project because of its complex and unique design, allowing me to learn about various less common engineering solutions.
What is the most important thing you have learnt as an apprentice?
The most important thing I’ve learnt as an apprentice is independence. This was my first job out of college, and I had to juggle and prioritise my workload with my education. It was my responsibility to teach myself which helped me to develop my confidence to ask questions about things I wanted to know more about.
What has happened since you completed your apprenticeship?
I was promoted from Apprentice Technician to Junior Technician in September 2020, when I completed my NVQ/Level 3 in Civil Engineering. I’ve had great support from Wayne and the team at Apex Consulting and I’m still at college one day a week working towards my HNC/Level 4 in Civil Engineering. Although I would like to continue my education in the future, I’m hoping to go full time upon completion of my HNC.
What would you say to someone thinking about applying for an apprenticeship within the industry?
Go for it! There’s so much variation in the work that you’ll be involved in, which is always interesting as you’re always learning. It’s a great way to get into a career, whilst also working towards a qualification. You won’t regret it!
National Apprenticeship Week takes place from 8th – 14th February 2021 and shines a light on the amazing work being done by employers and apprentices across the country. Find out more about apprenticeships in the construction industry on https://www.apprenticeships.gov.uk/.