Jones Homes is helping three ambitious apprentices lay the foundations for successful careers in the construction industry.

Jacob Pickering, Liam Banks and Tom Tilbrook are learning their respective trades on site at Jones Homes’ Heather View development in Hade Edge near Holmfirth, where the housebuilder is building a range of three-, four- and five-bedroom homes.

The trio are working towards gaining industry-accredited qualifications as part of the developer’s apprenticeship scheme, splitting their time between classroom-based learning at college and hands-on experience on site.

Apprentice bricklayer Jacob, 18, was inspired to pursue a career in construction after witnessing an extension being carried out to his parents’ house in Birstall. Jacob, who is studying at Leeds College of Building, said: “Seeing the builders working on the extension was really interesting and it looked like something I would enjoy doing. I did a year at college before starting my apprenticeship with Jones Homes. I’m really enjoying it so far and I’m learning a lot. It’s really satisfying to build something and then take a step back and see the finished product. I would like to become a qualified bricklayer and eventually run my own business.”

Liam, 19, of Liversedge, embarked on his joinery apprenticeship after doing work experience with a joiner while at school. He is studying at Kirklees College. He said: “I have always been interested in joinery and it’s something I have wanted to do ever since school. This apprenticeship has given me a chance to work with different people and learn new skills. I really enjoy being on site as every day is different. You are always learning something new.”

Jones Homes unveils show home at Heather View

Fellow trainee joiner Tom is 35 years old, lives in Leeds and is studying at Leeds College of Building. He has previous carpentry experience, but decided to work towards a formal qualification to boost his employment prospects. He said: “Although I have worked as a carpenter before I have already learnt quite a lot during my apprenticeship. I am planning on doing a third year and honing my skills before looking for work as a fully-fledged joiner.”

Heather View site manager Ben Bowen, who has been overseeing the apprentices’ progress on site, said: “Apprentices are the future of the industry so at Jones Homes we are keen to help the next generation of builders take their first steps on the career ladder. I started out as a bricklaying apprentice myself and from there I eventually worked my way up to site manager. Doing an apprenticeship enables you to get a trade behind you and opens up so many opportunities to earn a good living and have a rewarding career.”

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