This autumn, we’ve welcomed five new apprentices to Tai Tarian following a competitive round of recruitment.

Cian has joined our plumbing team, Gethin and Ciaran are training as plasterers, Ashton has started an electrical apprenticeship, and Luke has joined the carpentry team. Before they began their apprenticeships, the recruits completed a two-week skills course with Cyfle Building Skills, who then presented them with the tools of their trade.

Their arrival brings our apprenticeship team to eighteen, with people joining from a variety of backgrounds. We caught up with second-year carpentry apprentice Jack and new  apprentice Luke to hear about their journeys.

After losing his job at the steelworks, Jack decided it was time for a fresh start.
“I didn’t want to keep starting over, and when I joined Tai Tarian, I knew I wanted to develop my skills and build a career. 

"I wasn’t sure which trade I wanted to pursue at first, but once I bought my first house, carpentry fell into place. Housing is a really good career to get into, and apprenticeships can be for everyone, not just school leavers."

Before becoming an apprentice, Luke worked as a personal trainer and joined Tai Tarian through our Copper Foundation programme.
"I was with Copper Foundation for about eight months before moving into labouring with the damp, mould and condensation team, where I learnt loads. Since I started, I’ve had loads of support from everyone I’ve worked with.

"With carpentry you really have to use your brain to solve problems, and I’ve met some really good people along the way.”

Their stories show that apprenticeships can open doors at any stage of life, helping people build rewarding careers while developing skills that benefit local homes and communities.