Roan's experience as an Apprentice Joiner

Tell us a little about yourself?

My name is Roan and I have just completed my first year of an apprenticeship scheme with Somerville Fit-Out, while undergoing studies at College. I really enjoy football and support Liverpool FC. I play right back for my local Football Club.

Where did your interest in joinery begin and how did you start as an apprentice at Somerville?

After completing my GCSE's, I knew I didn't want to continue with A-Levels and wanted a job that was hands on. My dad and uncle were joiners and that was a career I was exposed to from a young age, so had taken an interest in it. After school, I applied for the apprenticeship scheme through SERC and was accepted and after contacting Somerville. I was really happy to be accepted into this position and begin my career in joinery and fit-out.

How have you found being an apprentice joiner at Somerville?

This past year has been brilliant, combining my studies at college with the hands-on experience I’ve learnt at Somerville which has enabled me to learn and develop my skills as a joiner. I'm thankful for the team that I work with; they have been very encouraging and supportive in helping me develop as a joiner. They’re always up for a chat and a bit of craic!

I like the routine of waking up, going to work and finishing the day knowing I’ve been productive. I really enjoy working at Somerville due to the nature of clients this job has opened me up to. I always thought joinery was only about manufacturing joinery pieces for homes. The role has really exposed me to all aspects of joinery, including the creation of high-end bespoke pieces as well as large pieces of furniture for various commercial clients.

Are there any tough parts of the job or challenges that you have faced?

There haven’t been too many tough parts of the job, although every day does bring its challenges. However, the team work well together, and we are good at resolving any issues. It can be intense working with a lot of machinery and managing heavy planks of wood, but it all helps improve my skills going forward.

What is the most rewarding part of your job here at Somerville?

For me the most rewarding part of the job is being actively involved and taking on your own position of responsibility. I find it rewarding to be given a piece of work to and being able to complete it to a high standard. A specific project I really enjoyed working on was at the Printworks. I had lots of opportunities to get involved in the manufacturing process and get hands on experience working with the fit-out team. It was an experience that I learnt a lot from, and it really helped increase my confidence, skills and overall abilities. It was really great to see the final project complete.

If you are interested in our apprenticeship scheme or would like to find out more about the role opportunities at Somerville, check out our Careers page.