Bright spark Andrew makes light work of career

Bright spark Andrew McPherson is switched on for a successful career.
By The Newsroom
Published 14th Mar 2016, 05:00 BST
Andrew McPherson, left, with fellow apprentices at the Willow Bank site.Andrew McPherson, left, with fellow apprentices at the Willow Bank site.
Andrew McPherson, left, with fellow apprentices at the Willow Bank site.

Andrew, an apprentice electrician with McNally & Thompson, is working on Willow Brook, an extra care housing scheme in Washington being delivered by regeneration specialist Riverside and Galliford Try.

“I started off on a work experience placement with McNally & Thompson UK Contracts Ltd and then applied for the position of apprentice electrician,” he said.

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“I have been working on duties such as installing cable baskets, running cables and connecting light points in the ceiling voids ready for the installation of light fittings.

“I know that the experience I have gained on this apprenticeship will put me on course to become a very good electrician”.

As National Apprentice Week starts today, a survey by manufacturers’ organisation EEF has found a record number of members planning to hire apprentices this year. Almost eight in 10 plan to recruit in manufacturing and engineering, while 45% have roles, such as IT, marketing and management on offer. The £8.8million Willow Brook scheme has created eight apprenticeships and numerous other training opportunities with contractors and suppliers.

Sally Nicholson, Riverside’s Regional Operations Manager, said: “Creating and supporting apprenticeships has underpinned our development at Willow Brook and further opportunities will be delivered as part of our plans for an on-site beauty salon and restaurant for residents.

“We have made a pledge to maximise opportunities for employment learning by establishing a programme of apprenticeships for tenants.”