New apprentices launch careers at Tai Tarian

Tai Tarian, the Neath Port Talbot-based social housing provider is investing in the skills of local people by taking on four new apprentices. 

Anastacia Bond, Simon Martin, Michael Bolton, and Jodie Ellis will spend the next two years working alongside some of Tai Tarian’s experienced tradespeople, whilst also spending time in local colleges studying for their formal qualifications. 

The four new recruits are working towards qualifying in several trades, including plumbing, bricklaying, carpentry, and plastering. 

Simon, who is undertaking a bricklaying apprenticeship has been with Tai Tarian since 2020, after joining their Copper Foundation employment initiative. Speaking about his new opportunity, he said: 
“I joined Tai Tarian two years ago, as part of their Copper Foundation project, which helps people back into work. After that I went on to gain more experience as part of the reactive repairs team and now I feel it's time to get some formal qualifications through this apprenticeship. 

“Over the years, Tai Tarian have had a great track record in helping apprentices thrive and develop their careers and that will certainly inspire me over the next two years as I look to develop my skills further.” 

Another of the apprentices is Anastacia Bond. Speaking about her new role she said: 
“I’m really enjoying the experience so far. I’ve had tremendous support from my new colleagues and have already learnt a great deal, just from working alongside them day in, day out.

“I’m passionate about my role and plumbing is something I really enjoy. I’m determined to work hard over the next two years to complete my apprenticeship and become fully qualified.” 

Jaime Greig, Tai Tarian’s Senior Operations Supervisor said:
"I’m delighted to welcome Anastacia, Simon, Michael, and Jodie to the team. They’ve all fitted in seamlessly and are making a great start to their careers.  

“The passion they have for their chosen trade is a joy to see, as is their eagerness to learn from our more experienced staff. 

“I’m particularly delighted to see Anastacia and Jodie join us, as women have historically been under-represented in this area of work. It will be great to see them progress and hopefully act as role models and encourage other women to follow them into the industry. 

“As an organisation, we’re proud to be investing in peoples’ futures and giving them the opportunity to thrive. These apprenticeships are a fantastic opportunity for them all and we hope they go on to have long and successful careers with us.” 

The four apprentices are the latest group of people to be given job opportunities at Tai Tarian, as part of the social housing provider’s commitment to create sustainable communities.  

Previous apprentices have continued to develop their careers by going on to train as inspectors, whilst 75 people have been given the chance to get back into employment through the award-winning Copper Foundation initiative. In addition, dozens of people given employment and training opportunities with Tai Tarian’s contractors through the organisation’s community benefits programme.