Story posted: 12/02/2025
Matt, also a Basildon resident, started working on a Sempra Homes site in 2019 with Indecon Building Limited, initially as a site labourer and with his commitment to progress he has now completed a Level 1 in Carpentry and Joinery and is working towards his Level 2. Matt is working on Sempra's Ganels Road development of 10 new homes.
Q. How did you find out about the apprenticeship, and what made you think it could be for you?
A. I have been interested in working in trade for several years and had a particular interest in carpentry but it was important to me to become a skilled tradesperson. Carpentry was always my main trade option but I wanted to move from being an unskilled worker to someone with a valuable, hands-on trade. I loved the idea of working on site because it provided practical learning opportunities but also enabled me to earn an income to support my family.
Q. How is the apprenticeship benefiting you, and what have been your most enjoyable parts?
A. The combination of practical site experience and academic learning has been great.
You just can’t knock the hands-on experience. Doing both the practical and class side at the same time is a lot better. It helps you see things from both perspectives and immediately put theory into practice. The opportunity to directly apply what I learn in the classroom has made the apprenticeship really interesting.
Q. What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship?
A. A lot of people get qualified in college but then struggle to apply what they’ve learned when they get into work. With an apprenticeship, you’re already actively working and learning at the same time, which means you’re gaining both qualifications and practical experience. It opens up great prospects for moving up the ladder.
Q. How do you feel this apprenticeship has supported your personal development and contributed to creating opportunities for local people?
A. It’s great to see local companies and councils building homes and creating opportunities for people from the same areas. Being able to learn and get paid while contributing to projects in my own community is really positive. It’s helping people who live here gain valuable skills, experience and work opportunities.
