‘THIS FEELS LIKE WHERE I GREW UP ... PEOPLE HERE ARE FAMILY’

As Scottish Apprenticeship Week begins, we hear from four who found an ideal route to their work

TODAY marks the start of Scottish Apprenticeship Week – and this year’s focus is “talent without limits”. Organisers hope to make the point that apprenticeships are for everyone, of all ages and from all backgrounds.

We spoke to four apprentices who show that there are paths into work and training no matter gender, disability or age.

ELLIE Willison wasn’t sure what she wanted to do when she finished school... but she knew she wanted to be involved in construction.

Her dad and her uncle both worked in the industry and, although she knew she would be one of very few women in the field, she knew it was for her.

During her apprenticeship the 20-year-old made another discovery. Ellie was diagnosed with dyslexia – but she has not let that stand in her way.

She said: “Some of my lecturers and tutors spotted my dyslexia so I was tested for it.

“It’s not impacted on my apprenticeship at all, because everyone is really understanding. I get some extra help and support if I need it, but I’m getting on really well.”

At college, Ellie had undertaken work experience at City Building and she knew it was the place she wanted to work.

Ellie said: “After school I went to college to study a women in construction course.

“My dad and uncle both work in the industry and I remember them working on a new extension to our house when I was young, so I’ve grown up with it.

“I spent a week of work experience at City Building when I was at college, trying out some different things and that’s when I realised, I wanted to be an electrician.”

Ellie joined the electrician’s apprentice programme when she was 18 and is the only female in her class.

She said: “On my first day I was a little bit nervous, but everyone is so friendly that the feeling didn’t last long. I’ve made lots of friends here and everyone is really helpful.”

Ellie was a bit unsure about some of the aspects of her apprenticeship, but she has surprised herself with how much she’s enjoyed it so far.

She said: “I didn’t think I would like all of the projects that we’re tasked with, but I do.

“Last week we went to a block of flats in Robroyston where we had to rewire the buzzer entry system of the whole close.

“I really enjoyed getting out and taking what I’ve learned in the workshop into a real-life situation.”

STEVEN Hannon has dealt with serious challenges during his apprenticeship, having had to overcome homelessness.

The 20-year-old moved from Donegal to Scotland as he felt there were more opportunities to progress in construction than in Ireland. But after a few months of living here Steven found himself homeless.

An apprenticeship not only gave him a route into the industry, but he gained support from his lecturers to get back on his feet.

He said: “I didn’t have a permanent place to live and all my lecturers and supervisors were helping me out, making sure I was alright.

“The team really looked out for me and helped me get on my feet. I’m so grateful to all of them and for the help from my family and colleagues.

“I don’t know where I’d be without them.”