Apprentice

I joined straight from school when I was 16. I learned about the scheme at Heathfield Community College. I didn’t want to stay at college and preferred to do something with my hands and earn as you learn.

The six-month residential course at HMS Sultan was definitely the best bit. They’re navy staff and work to high standards to get you off to a good start. It was good living there and it helped me to grow up.

I then went to college one day a week for two years and for the on-the-job training I was with one person throughout the apprenticeship. We got on really well. He taught me and if I got stuck he would give me a hand.

You learn a lot on the job and I learnt more from him than anyone else. The college course is good, but it’s not about what the job entails. You learn more as you do the job. When I first started, I was earning less than my friends because some went into bricklaying and were earning good money, but now I am earning more than them – and the van is a bonus.

The whole experience has been beneficial to me. It has made me more mature. My mentor, Terry Hill, was excellent. Without him, I wouldn’t be where I am now.