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“Apprentices keep the industry going”

Well established in Southampton, family run firm Ridon Joinery has always invested in apprentices, and co-owner Janet Prewitt reveals why:

“It’s a way of bringing in fresh talent and passing on existing skills.”

Janet explains about the benefits that employing apprentices has had to this successful joinery manufacturer:  

“You do have to be prepared to invest time into the training, but it’s worth it as you do get a lot out of a well trained apprentice. We have found the first year is usually the most difficult for us and the apprentice but in the second year you do start to see a return on your investment, and the contribution the apprentice makes to the business is more evident at this stage. Also it frees up the skilled workers to take on other tasks, therefore long-term this helps to increase productivity.”

Ian Cartwright, 19, from Southampton, originally started an Apprenticeship with another firm which unfortunately closed down after he had completed just two years with them. Opportunely, Ian was able to finish his third year of the scheme with Ridon Joinery, while also attending Eastleigh College one day per week to complete an NVQ in Carpentry and Joinery.

Ian said:

“I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do when I left school so looked into the Apprenticeship scheme. I enjoy the work I do such as going out on site, fitting reception desks and generally getting involved in lots of projects. I’m hoping to continue my career here at Ridon and progressing in my role. I would definitely recommend the Apprenticeship scheme to others as it’s a great way to learn new skills while you are earning!”

Ridon Joinery is also happy with Ian’s progress at the company and Janet added:

“We are hoping to keep Ian once his Apprenticeship is complete, he is very good! I would definitely recommend the scheme to other employers as it is a valuable way to encourage skills to be passed on and keep the industry going.”

Karen Jackson, Eastleigh College Training Agency Advisor added:

“Working closely with Ridon Joinery, we are all very pleased with Ian’s achievements, which also include recently completing the Diploma as part his Apprenticeship. The skills and knowledge that he has gained through the scheme have enabled Ian to prove to his manager that he is a highly competent employee, who can deliver on a wide variety of projects.”