Young apprentices settling in well while learning new skills with A1

The Bassetlaw ALMO (arms length management organisation) has a history of employing apprentices, many of whom still work with A1 Housing, and the latest trainees have now taken up their positions of bricklayer, joiner and electrician.

The three-year programme will see Solomon Harland, Elliott Wallhead and Brent Cook spend four days a week learning on the job with A1 Housing, and one day a week at college working towards an NVQ Level 3 in their respective trades.

All three have already settled in well and Brent, an electrician said: “I’ve been here three weeks and I’m really enjoying it. I’ve always been into electronics and once I’d done my GCSEs I knew this is what I wanted to do.”

“I’d done some work experience with my dad, who’s a plumber, and always thought it was more fun than sitting in a classroom,” added the 16-year-old.

“I’m learning loads and really enjoying meeting new people and doing a variety of different jobs.”

Even at a young age, bricklayer Solomon has already accrued two-years of experience by joining A1 Housing on day release from West Notts College where he completed a construction course.

He said: “I’ve always wanted to work in construction and going to college and being here one-day a week really helped me to get this apprenticeship.”

“We mostly make repairs to homes but I’m learning new skills every day and tackling loads of different things.”

Director of Housing and Technical services at A1 Housing Don Spittlehouse said: “As a local employer we feel it is important to provide apprenticeships such as this to young people in Bassetlaw.”

“We take on new apprentices every three years and it is testament to the standard of training and A1 Housing as a company that many former apprentices are still with us today.”

“We had a great response when we advertised for the latest positions and I’d like to congratulate Solomon, Elliott and Brent on their appointments and welcome them to A1 Housing.”