It’s no pipedream to earn and learn
TEENAGER Sophie Bateup admits it was a ‘big choice’ to go against ‘the norm’ of university and instead learn a skilled trade.
The 16-year-old, of Epsom, Surrey, began a four-year plumbing and heating apprenticeship with Pimlico Plumbers. Sophie had first contacted the firm for work experience before starting her apprenticeship.
‘I worked in all departments to get a feel for the industry,’ she says. ‘It was exactly what I envisioned, confirming my passion to do an apprenticeship, rather than going to university. I’ve always been an active person and I love getting stuck into tasks.
‘Plumbing allows me to do practical work, while getting a sense of satisfaction. You are able to help someone in need to resolve an issue — whether it’s fixing a leak or getting a customer’s heating working again.’
Each day, Sophie completes tasks such as changing radiator valves or expansion vessels or soldering pipes for unvented indirect cylinders. She says: ‘The best part of my job is that every day is different. I also enjoy working with engineers and apprentices and meeting our customers.
‘With plumbing, there are plenty of jobs that aren’t particularly nice. Let’s just say you wouldn’t want to be eating your lunch after unblocking a kitchen sink! But it’s all part of the challenge.’
Sophie believes an apprenticeship is ‘by far’ the best route into any skilled trade. She adds: ‘No amount of reading could prepare you for the challenges you can face in plumbing — it’s on-the-job experience.
‘An apprenticeship offers you the chance to become equipped with the skills you need for a successful career, as well as being able to earn while you gain experience. The benefits of an apprenticeship, plus the amazing support offered at Pimlico, were fantastic. I’m so pleased I took the decision.’
She recommends asking lots of questions: ‘You need good communication skills to be able to inform customers of a job’s progress and converse with other employees.’
VISIT pimlicoplumbers.com/ recruitment/pimlico-apprentices