‘You’re Hired!’ Two new apprentices start work at Stevenage Homes

Two local young people began working towards lifelong careers by taking up apprenticeships with Stevenage Homes this month.

Ryan Moss (17) of Stevenage will be working as an apprentice carpenter and Christian Grindall (16) from Letchworth will take up his apprenticeship in plumbing having been selected from more than 280 applicants for the roles.

 They both took part in a half day assessment where candidates tested their skills by performing a number of tasks individually and as part of a team. Adele Wright, learning and development business partner, explained the purpose of the assessment. She said,

‘Apprentices need to be able to fit in with a team so that they can learn their trade from qualified and experienced staff, yet still have the confidence to work by themselves. The assessment centre helped the applicants to show us how well they work and how likely they are to develop new skills in a working environment. It also helped them to relax and get to know Stevenage Homes a bit better than in a formal interview, which meant that they were able to show us their best side.’

 For four days per week Ryan and Christian will join staff responsible for maintaining housing stock and will spend one day at college to work towards their qualifications. Welcoming the new additions to the team Cllr Ann Webb, housing portfolio holder for Stevenage Borough Council said,

‘Apprenticeships give people an opportunity to develop skills and qualifications that could result in a lifelong career. At a time when it’s very difficult for young people to find work I’m thrilled that Stevenage Homes is able to offer apprenticeships for local people.’