Joinery apprentices carve a bright future

Lewis Ferrer (17), of Blidworth, and Mark Bingham (17), of Rainworth, have both found work with Jephsons Shopfitters, Maun Way.

Both studied carpentry and Joinery and were put forward from a group of 30 candidates when the Mansfield firm approached West Notts College.

Lewis said: “It is great to be working and learning at the same time. It is hard work but we also have a good laugh now and then.”

Mark said: “My brother is a joiner and told me Jephsons had a good reputation. When the opportunity came up I grabbed it and getting the job was the best news ever,” said Lewis.

The two spend most of their time learning on the job in the workshop, assisting with the construction of fit out material for clients such as Costa Coffee, KFC and Pizza Hut.

The rest of the time they are at college on day or block release. The pair will be at college for at least two years studying for an NVQ Level 2 in Carpentry and Joinery.

Nigel Schofield, operations director at Jephsons, said: “The type of skills that Lewis and Mark learn on their courses really compliment the work we do.

“We need a skilled workforce and apprenticeships mean we can develop our future teams.”