Alec Stanton
Alec left school in 2001 and moved between unskilled jobs until he was made redundant in 2010. Wanting to gain a trade and qualifications, Alec responded to an advert from joinery company, Sashes and Shutters, for an apprentice and was successful. As part of the apprenticeship in Wood Occupations (Bench Joinery) Alec is currently studying for a Technical Certificate in Bench Joinery level 2, an NVQ in Bench Joinery level 2 and key skills in Communication and Application level 2, with Swindon College. Alec excels in his training and is a model employee at work, which has encouraged him to continue to level 3 on completion of his current study.
Despite having to commute over 20 miles a day to work on bicycle or moped and support a family on apprentice wages, Alec feels the apprenticeship has changed his life for the better. “I am much more focussed and I am really enjoying my learning both in my workplace and at college... I am doing a real job in a real workplace gaining the most brilliant experience,” said Alec.