Archie Parish's Story - Path2Apprenticeships

Name Archie Parish Read Time 2 minutes

Before joining The Skills Centre, Archie was studying sports but lacked the credentials and experience to enter into the construction sector. The Youth Trailblazer programme changed everything, providing the practical site experience and confidence boost needed for Archie to begin his career in construction. Now, with a permanent role at Avenue Scaffolding.

What were you doing before you joined The Skills Centre, and how did you find out about the programme?

Before I started at The Skills Centre, I had been at College doing a sports course. I found out about the programme through Jake, who works for The Skills Centre and recommended the Youth Trailblazer programme to me, as it would open the door for me to start a career.

What did you know about construction before starting your course?

I had an interest in getting into construction but it was difficult without my CSCS Card. I thought construction was just general labouring, such as heavy lifting and working hard onsite all day.

What has the programme taught you about Construction work?

The Youth Trailblazer programme includes practical work so I now see the many pathways and skills that I can achieve and work towards, and how everyone works together and learning the different aspects of being about on site, and how to keep myself safe on site.

What impact has the Youth Trailblazer course had for you?

When I gained my CSCS card, I contacted several companies and I eventually obtained a weeks paid work trial with potential employment with Avenue Scaffolding, which I successfully obtained employment with. This has helped my confidence massively.

What is the biggest takeaway for you from your programme?

My confidence has improved massively, doing practical sessions on site has given me an overview of what it could be like working on site. I enjoyed working with Chris on our practical sessions. I am now working towards becoming a fully qualified Scaffolder. If I did not do this course, I would have just stayed in college, which I did not want to do. This course has given me my start towards my Construction career.