Khristian's Story - from Pre-Employment to Dry Lining Apprentice
Khristian’s path into the construction industry began with a simple conversation at his local Job Centre. While on benefits, he was introduced to The Skills Centre through his work coach, who recommended he enrol on a pre-employment course.
With a strong desire to find direction and kick-start a career, Khristian embraced the opportunity—gaining not just technical knowledge, but also confidence and clarity about his future. His dedication paid off when he was spotted by The Skills Centre’s partner, Measom Dry Lining, and offered a work trial. Today, he’s thriving as an apprentice Dry Liner, with ambitions to grow further in the industry.
Can you share how you first found out about The Skills Centre?
Through Hounslow Job Centre. I was on benefits and I heard about The Skills Centre through my work coach at my local job centre in Basildon. They told me that it was a pre-employment course, more of an introduction to dry-lining and that I get a Level One in basic construction skills and a CSCS card.
What specific aspects of the programme did you enjoy the most, and why did they stand out to you?
The reason why I liked it more is because it’s classroom and practical based. And when you’re in the classroom you know, you’re not in school. You’re here to learn something, to get you into work and help you progress into a trade of something in the future.
After completing the programme, what is your overall impression of your experience?
As a whole, if you’re looking to get into the construction industry and further progress yourself, this is a perfect course to get you started because again, it’s a pre-employment course. It is here to help you get a job.
I gained a big boost in confidence, especially with interview skills and figuring out what career path I wanted to take.
What tips or recommendations would you give to someone considering enrolling on this programme?
Turn up on time, make a good example because there’s lots of other companies connected that could get you an apprenticeship or a job.
Khristian was fortunate enough to be spotted by our partner at The Skills Centre Essex, Measom Dry Lining, and was invited onto a short-term work trial. After completing this trial, he has been taken on as an apprentice Dry Liner.
What work are you doing now and how are you finding it?
After completing my pre-employment course, I gained a big boost in confidence, especially with interview skills and figuring out what career path I wanted to take. Through The Skills Centre, I landed an interview with Measom, successfully passes the job trial, and got the job! I’m now starting my journey as an apprentice and really enjoying the experience so far. I find reading drawings and problem-solving particularly interesting in my role at the moment.
What are your plans for the future?
My plan for the future is to continue with this apprenticeship and see where my career takes me once I complete it. I’m excited to learn, grow and make the most of the opportunities ahead, maybe in supervision or management.
Reflecting on your time at The Skills Centre, how do you feel about it?
The course I did gave me all of the skills and confidence I needed to get into my current role, not just skills on the tools, but interview skills as well.
If you’re looking to get into the construction industry and further progress yourself, this is a perfect course to get you started.
On Tuesday June 24th, Khristian was invited to The Earls Court Skills Centre to take part in a visit from DWP Minister for Transformation Andrew Western, as he signed a new agreement with the CITB that would see more than 40,000 industry placements funded.
Khristian was even interviewed by the DWP team, and has now featured across their social media channels.
We are excited to continue following Khristian on his journey as an apprentice Dry Liner, and are certain he has a bright career in construction ahead of him.
Interested in joining this programme?
Get in touch with us to find out what bootcamps we are currently offering and if you might be eligible to join.
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