Exciting opportunities for eight new Welsh apprentices

Published by Holly George for Mears Group PLC in Housing and also in Communities, Education

Eight new apprentices have started work this month with Mears in Neath Port Talbot.  The social housing repairs and maintenance provider was originally looking to take on six local apprentices but after being inundated with applications, managed to whittle it down to eight outstanding applicants.   The new apprentices will be working on Mears’ contract with NPT Homes and will train to be plumbers, plasterers and carpenters.  The apprentices will spend one day a week at Neath Port Talbot College, gaining experience and completing up to the Level 3 NVQ.

Steve Court was a Support Worker previously as that was the only job he could find.  He said "By doing this hopefully I will have a job for life doing what I am passionate about doing".

Ioan Thompson was previously unemployed and said "This is a brilliant opportunity and is giving me the experience I need to move on in life".

Tom McGilivray was in the T.A and was posted to Afghanistan as a volunteer but wanted a more stable career. He had also previously worked as a bricklayer. Tom said "This apprenticeship will provide me with a stable career and a chance to progress in construction giving me and my family a stable future. I'm very grateful to Mears for this opportunity - it will change my life!”

Adrian Marshman, Regional Director for Mears said “Having been taken aback by the sheer number and quality of local people looking for an apprenticeship, we’re delighted to have been able to offer these 8 exciting new opportunities. Supported by NPT Homes and Neath Port Talbot College, we’re confident of producing high quality local tradespeople to assist the long term prosperity of local communities".