0:00:02 > 0:00:05High-tech engineer, dental nurse, hairdresser - an apprenticeship
0:00:05 > 0:00:10can be a great way to get yourself skilled up without going to uni,
0:00:10 > 0:00:13and earn some hard cash while you're training.
0:00:13 > 0:00:17There are currently over 1,500 types of job you can do
0:00:17 > 0:00:22as an apprentice. To find out more, we got together six school students.
0:00:22 > 0:00:27Each will discover what it's like to be an apprentice for a day.
0:00:27 > 0:00:29The would-be apprentices meet someone who knows
0:00:29 > 0:00:34plenty about jobs and how to choose the right one.
0:00:34 > 0:00:37Before even thinking about what apprenticeship you should take,
0:00:37 > 0:00:40it's really important you guys start thinking about what you're good at.
0:00:40 > 0:00:43What's most important is you enjoy what you do
0:00:43 > 0:00:47because if you are happy, then you will be successful.
0:00:47 > 0:00:48Here's Ellie's story.
0:00:48 > 0:00:52Hi, I'm Ellie, I'm 15 years old and I'm currently doing my GCSEs.
0:00:52 > 0:00:54My favourite subjects are food tech and art
0:00:54 > 0:00:56but, most of all, I enjoy baking.
0:00:57 > 0:01:01Last year, we did a competition called the Future Chef competition
0:01:01 > 0:01:05and my school entered our class into it and I won my school heat for that
0:01:05 > 0:01:07and then we got into the North West Finals.
0:01:07 > 0:01:10It was really exciting. I think I learnt a lot from it.
0:01:10 > 0:01:12Mum, come and taste my cheesecake.
0:01:12 > 0:01:14When I cook something and then everyone enjoys it,
0:01:14 > 0:01:16it makes it feel worthwhile.
0:01:18 > 0:01:21Mmm, very nice, Ellie, it tastes lovely.
0:01:21 > 0:01:23I don't really know much about apprenticeships,
0:01:23 > 0:01:25but I'd like to find out more about them.
0:01:30 > 0:01:35Ellie has an in-depth session with careers mentor Aimee.
0:01:35 > 0:01:39OK, Ellie, have you got an idea of what you'd like to do in your career?
0:01:39 > 0:01:42- Er, involved with, like, cooking and baking...- Cooking?
0:01:42 > 0:01:44- I like the creative side of it.- OK.
0:01:44 > 0:01:48When I saw cooking in GCSEs at school, it got me really interested in it.
0:01:48 > 0:01:51Would you say that was a real passion?
0:01:51 > 0:01:52Yeah, the creative side of it.
0:01:52 > 0:01:56What about the academic side of things? Is that something that you enjoy?
0:01:56 > 0:02:00I mostly enjoy like more like art and food technology
0:02:00 > 0:02:02instead of like science and maths.
0:02:02 > 0:02:05So it's fair to say that you are more of a practical learner, a doer.
0:02:05 > 0:02:07- You want to get out there and do? - Yeah.
0:02:07 > 0:02:11So as part of your journey and your decision about this apprenticeship,
0:02:11 > 0:02:14how about you spend the day with one of the UK's leading chefs?
0:02:14 > 0:02:16Yeah, that would be really good!
0:02:23 > 0:02:25First step - Ellie needs to look the part.
0:02:28 > 0:02:29Let's go.
0:02:31 > 0:02:34Top British Chef, Michael Caines, has two Michelin stars
0:02:34 > 0:02:37and runs some of the country's finest restaurants.
0:02:37 > 0:02:40He's employed dozens of apprentices.
0:02:40 > 0:02:43One them is 18-year-old pastry chef Aidan.
0:02:43 > 0:02:48Go on, Aidan. In you go. That's it, perfect. Excellent.
0:02:48 > 0:02:52He's on a two-year apprenticeship and is ready to show Ellie
0:02:52 > 0:02:54how things work in a professional kitchen.
0:02:54 > 0:02:58- Hi, Ellie, I'm Aidan.- Hi, I'm Ellie.
0:02:58 > 0:03:01OK, Ellie, so today we're just going to make some macaroons.
0:03:01 > 0:03:04- Have you ever made any macaroons before?- No.- OK, wonderful.
0:03:04 > 0:03:06So how did you get in to being an apprentice?
0:03:06 > 0:03:12From school, I started working on weekends at a local restaurant,
0:03:12 > 0:03:16which gave me good experience in working in a professional kitchen.
0:03:16 > 0:03:21And then after that, working for two years and weekends,
0:03:21 > 0:03:24I, er, applied to do my NVQ2 at college,
0:03:24 > 0:03:27through Michael Caines' apprenticeship.
0:03:27 > 0:03:31Good GCSE grades helped Aidan get the apprenticeship.
0:03:31 > 0:03:35So when I first started, I specialised in the pastry section
0:03:35 > 0:03:40so, you know, making the bread and doing preparation for lunch service.
0:03:40 > 0:03:42From making the bread,
0:03:42 > 0:03:45Aidan quickly progressed to creating elaborate desserts.
0:03:45 > 0:03:48The pastry section is quite different to the main kitchen.
0:03:48 > 0:03:51You've got to be exact with your measurements and all that,
0:03:51 > 0:03:54because if you don't have precise measurements,
0:03:54 > 0:03:55the recipe won't work.
0:03:55 > 0:03:57So you look like you really enjoy your job,
0:03:57 > 0:03:59would you say there's any downsides?
0:03:59 > 0:04:02The disadvantage is obviously the unsociable hours,
0:04:02 > 0:04:04but that's what comes with the job.
0:04:04 > 0:04:06So what are the advantages of doing
0:04:06 > 0:04:09an apprenticeship rather than just going to college?
0:04:09 > 0:04:12In college, you're being taught by one teacher
0:04:12 > 0:04:14and say about 20 students.
0:04:14 > 0:04:17But the advantage of being in an apprenticeship in the workplace
0:04:17 > 0:04:19is you're the one student
0:04:19 > 0:04:22being taught by 20 chefs,
0:04:22 > 0:04:25so you get all their knowledge for yourself.
0:04:35 > 0:04:38Do you think it's good to be earning money while you're training?
0:04:38 > 0:04:40Yes, definitely so. It's nice to have a bit of money
0:04:40 > 0:04:41just to do what you want with it.
0:04:46 > 0:04:50And Aidan has some clever tips about how to get noticed as an apprentice.
0:04:50 > 0:04:53On your days off, you can always get your cookery books,
0:04:53 > 0:04:56start making your own things and then go into work and show them,
0:04:56 > 0:04:58showing that you're learning. They love that.
0:04:58 > 0:05:02It's all about learning. What you put in, you'll get out basically.
0:05:09 > 0:05:11Within our apprenticeship programme,
0:05:11 > 0:05:13we're looking for bright, young individuals
0:05:13 > 0:05:18that want to engage with the hospitality industry and within our company and progress.
0:05:18 > 0:05:21And we offer lots of progression for those individuals.
0:05:21 > 0:05:24I think somebody like you, Ellie, is a really good candidate
0:05:24 > 0:05:27because you've shown that you're interested, you've taken part
0:05:27 > 0:05:28with the competition,
0:05:28 > 0:05:31you've also done work experience,
0:05:31 > 0:05:35which is really all very, very positive when you go to an employer like myself.
0:05:35 > 0:05:38Would you recommend a career as a chef?
0:05:38 > 0:05:41If I can't recommend a career in cooking, then nobody can!
0:05:41 > 0:05:44I think it's a great industry that Britain can be proud of,
0:05:44 > 0:05:47along with fashion and all the other wonderful things we are exporting.
0:05:47 > 0:05:51One of the things that makes Britain very special is multiculturalism -
0:05:51 > 0:05:54the fact that we have influence from all around the world in our culture,
0:05:54 > 0:05:57within our society and that's reflecting on our cuisine.
0:05:57 > 0:05:59And that identity that we have about being British
0:05:59 > 0:06:02is something people want to buy into
0:06:02 > 0:06:03as well as us being able to export
0:06:03 > 0:06:06along with all the other great things in the UK.
0:06:13 > 0:06:17I've really enjoyed myself today, I found it really fun.
0:06:17 > 0:06:19I thought that, in the kitchen,
0:06:19 > 0:06:22it was more relaxed than I thought it would be. But most importantly,
0:06:22 > 0:06:24I realise I can use my creative side when working.
0:06:24 > 0:06:26I think it would be really good for me.
0:06:32 > 0:06:34Here's Josh's story.
0:06:35 > 0:06:37Hi, my name's Josh. I'm 16.
0:06:37 > 0:06:41At school, I study A levels in maths, chemistry, physics and biology.
0:06:41 > 0:06:43One of my hobbies is climbing!
0:06:48 > 0:06:51As well as my climbing, I enjoy doing rugby.
0:06:54 > 0:06:56I've got a moderate hearing loss,
0:06:56 > 0:06:59so I've got to wear hearing aids to bring it to a normal level.
0:07:00 > 0:07:02You may see it inside the ear.
0:07:03 > 0:07:06They haven't kept me back from doing anything.
0:07:07 > 0:07:10I don't really know what apprenticeships involve,
0:07:10 > 0:07:12so I'd be keen to find out and learn more.
0:07:18 > 0:07:21Josh has an in-depth session with careers mentor Aimee.
0:07:21 > 0:07:25So, Josh, have you had any thoughts of what you might like to do with your career?
0:07:25 > 0:07:28- Well, I've looked at dentistry.- OK.
0:07:28 > 0:07:31I did some work experience and found it really interesting.
0:07:31 > 0:07:34So how are you thinking you are going to get there?
0:07:34 > 0:07:38I'm studying my A levels now and the dental courses
0:07:38 > 0:07:44- I've looked at are three As, or two As and a B.- Very competitive, yeah.
0:07:44 > 0:07:49It's a lot of pressure to put on someone to try and get those grades.
0:07:49 > 0:07:53You could actually use an apprenticeship as a route to that goal.
0:07:53 > 0:07:56An apprenticeship as a dental nurse would be a really good way
0:07:56 > 0:07:58for you to then get on to a dental degree.
0:07:58 > 0:08:01I think that would be a really good option for you,
0:08:01 > 0:08:04so that you haven't put a massive amount of pressure on this one route.
0:08:04 > 0:08:07And what we've arranged is for you to spend a day
0:08:07 > 0:08:12with an award-winning dental practice. How does that sound?
0:08:12 > 0:08:15Yeah, that sounds exciting. It'd be a good experience.
0:08:21 > 0:08:23Josh is spending the day with a dental practice
0:08:23 > 0:08:27owned and run by husband and wife team, Jim and Marcia Fotheringham.
0:08:29 > 0:08:33They've won national recognition for their apprentice training programme.
0:08:33 > 0:08:35Ready to work!
0:08:37 > 0:08:41Josh is going to shadow recently qualified dental nurse Philippa.
0:08:41 > 0:08:44After passing GCSEs in maths, English and science,
0:08:44 > 0:08:47then a diploma in health care at college,
0:08:47 > 0:08:50Philippa took a year's apprenticeship here,
0:08:50 > 0:08:52gaining an NVQ Level 3.
0:08:52 > 0:08:55It is a good job, really challenging and rewarding.
0:08:55 > 0:08:56I do like being in the surgery -
0:08:56 > 0:09:00that's my favourite bit, to be working alongside the dentist.
0:09:00 > 0:09:03She's going to show Josh how a surgery works.
0:09:03 > 0:09:04- Hi, nice to meet you.- Hi.
0:09:04 > 0:09:08I think it's helpful to work on the job alongside dentists
0:09:08 > 0:09:10and other nurses that have done the course
0:09:10 > 0:09:13and then going to college one night a week
0:09:13 > 0:09:18because there was other girls on the courses that we did,
0:09:18 > 0:09:19and they were just at college,
0:09:19 > 0:09:22whereas we were working alongside a dentist at the time,
0:09:22 > 0:09:24and we knew a lot more
0:09:24 > 0:09:27and were picking up on it a lot faster than what they were.
0:09:27 > 0:09:31I'm happy to put a repair on it but at least let's take an X-ray.
0:09:31 > 0:09:33We're just X-raying a patient's tooth
0:09:33 > 0:09:36to see what's causing the problems in his mouth.
0:09:36 > 0:09:39There's so little tooth left, you need some reinforcement in there,
0:09:39 > 0:09:41so it probably needs a root filling.
0:09:43 > 0:09:47What subjects did you do at school that you find useful now?
0:09:47 > 0:09:51Obviously, your sciences, things like that are useful
0:09:51 > 0:09:53but also stuff like your English.
0:09:53 > 0:09:56IT was good because everything is on computers now.
0:09:56 > 0:09:59It used to be all on cards, but it's all on to computers now.
0:09:59 > 0:10:03When the dentist is dictating notes, telling you which teeth are missing,
0:10:03 > 0:10:06which teeth have got amalgam fillings, composites, crowns,
0:10:06 > 0:10:08you need to be able to keep on track of all that.
0:10:08 > 0:10:11I think it's nice to challenge yourself and do that extra bit,
0:10:11 > 0:10:13so you can go on to university.
0:10:13 > 0:10:16So this is a glass isonomer cement that we're going to mix today,
0:10:16 > 0:10:19which is a filling material that's used in dentistry.
0:10:19 > 0:10:21I would like to go into dental hygiene
0:10:21 > 0:10:24but, in the meantime, I would like to do some other courses
0:10:24 > 0:10:27like radiography, oral health, things like that.
0:10:27 > 0:10:30It's always good to get extra qualifications
0:10:30 > 0:10:32before you go on to do other things.
0:10:34 > 0:10:38We obviously are looking for people with GCSE qualifications.
0:10:38 > 0:10:42But there been times when we have had a person
0:10:42 > 0:10:45who started out as just coming in as a cleaner,
0:10:45 > 0:10:48they then became a receptionist,
0:10:48 > 0:10:51they then became a nurse
0:10:51 > 0:10:54and the particular person I'm now thinking of
0:10:54 > 0:10:57is off at university becoming a dentist.
0:10:57 > 0:10:58What kind of qualities do you look for
0:10:58 > 0:11:00when you take on a young apprentice?
0:11:00 > 0:11:04I always say to people get as much education as you can,
0:11:04 > 0:11:09but, in case you are somebody who hasn't had it, don't let that stop you from coming in.
0:11:09 > 0:11:11As long as you are interested in doing the work,
0:11:11 > 0:11:15because obviously you need the education once you come in here,
0:11:15 > 0:11:17so you need to be willing to do that.
0:11:17 > 0:11:21As long as you are somebody like that, we can always work with the rest of it.
0:11:21 > 0:11:24You don't see many male dental nurses.
0:11:24 > 0:11:27Is it a job you would recommend for a male?
0:11:27 > 0:11:30I think that the profession of dental nurses
0:11:30 > 0:11:35had been affected in a negative way by low salaries at one point.
0:11:35 > 0:11:36I think since that's changed.
0:11:36 > 0:11:39I'm hoping and I expect to see
0:11:39 > 0:11:41more men apply for those kinds of positions
0:11:41 > 0:11:43because now they are getting paid well
0:11:43 > 0:11:45and making money is always good.
0:11:48 > 0:11:51I've really enjoyed today. It's been a good experience. I've learnt a lot.
0:11:51 > 0:11:56I definitely think an apprenticeship could be a good way into the profession.
0:12:02 > 0:12:04Here's Lewis's story.
0:12:06 > 0:12:09Hi, my name's Lewis, I'm 17.
0:12:09 > 0:12:11I'm doing maths, geography and business at A levels.
0:12:11 > 0:12:12My hobbies are biking...
0:12:15 > 0:12:17..skiing...
0:12:17 > 0:12:18and photography.
0:12:20 > 0:12:23But what I really love doing is flying those.
0:12:28 > 0:12:31It's like the dream you had when you were a child
0:12:31 > 0:12:33to just take off and fly.
0:12:33 > 0:12:34The view is just amazing.
0:12:36 > 0:12:38I love everything mechanical really,
0:12:38 > 0:12:41especially if it's got an engine on it.
0:12:41 > 0:12:43I often get shouted at sometimes.
0:12:43 > 0:12:46Instead of doing the work that I should be doing,
0:12:46 > 0:12:49I get distracted and start fixing things.
0:12:49 > 0:12:52I'd like to own my own business and be my own boss.
0:12:52 > 0:12:55It would have to be something that I'm passionate about
0:12:55 > 0:12:57and I think it's the best way of making money.
0:12:57 > 0:13:00So I think that an apprenticeship might be the way forward,
0:13:00 > 0:13:03but I don't know much about them so I'd like to find out more.
0:13:07 > 0:13:11Lewis has an in-depth session with careers mentor Aimee.
0:13:11 > 0:13:14You do fly helicopters, and how long have you being doing that?
0:13:14 > 0:13:18- Since I was 14.- That's incredible! How many hours have you done?
0:13:18 > 0:13:20I've done eight out of 45, which I need for my pilot's licence.
0:13:20 > 0:13:23OK, so this isn't just something that you think you'd like to do,
0:13:23 > 0:13:26- you're actually doing it...- I'm working towards it.- ..and loving it.
0:13:26 > 0:13:28Look at your eyes light up when you talk about that.
0:13:28 > 0:13:30So is that something you'd like to
0:13:30 > 0:13:33- incorporate into your career, longer term?- Yes, yeah.
0:13:33 > 0:13:36Are there any areas at the moment that you, I suppose at school,
0:13:36 > 0:13:39those type of stuff or any jobs
0:13:39 > 0:13:41you think, "I definitely wouldn't want to do that"?
0:13:41 > 0:13:44- Um, a normal job.- Like a desk job.
0:13:44 > 0:13:47You don't want to be sat behind a desk for eight hours.
0:13:47 > 0:13:50- Have you thought much about apprenticeships?- Yeah, I have,
0:13:50 > 0:13:53because I don't really fancy going to university either.
0:13:53 > 0:13:54Right, OK, I would say that
0:13:54 > 0:13:57possibly looking at an apprenticeship within engineering,
0:13:57 > 0:13:59- maybe something like that?- Yeah.
0:13:59 > 0:14:02What I've organised for you is to go and spend a day
0:14:02 > 0:14:05with one of the UK's leading engineering companies.
0:14:05 > 0:14:07- Does that sound good?- Brilliant.
0:14:07 > 0:14:09- Well, let's do that.- Yeah, that's brilliant, yeah. Thank you.
0:14:13 > 0:14:16Time for Lewis to get suited and booted.
0:14:18 > 0:14:19Let's go!
0:14:20 > 0:14:23Lewis will be shadowing 16-year-old Natasha.
0:14:23 > 0:14:25She's just a few months into
0:14:25 > 0:14:28an advanced technical apprenticeship with Rolls-Royce.
0:14:28 > 0:14:29The three-year course
0:14:29 > 0:14:33will enable her to qualify as a manufacturing engineer.
0:14:33 > 0:14:35Natasha starts by taking Lewis
0:14:35 > 0:14:39on a grand tour of the company's state-of-the-art apprentice academy.
0:14:39 > 0:14:42It's base to around 250 apprentices.
0:14:43 > 0:14:46So what's the process for getting an apprenticeship with this company?
0:14:46 > 0:14:49We first had to apply online, it was all online, and upload your CV,
0:14:49 > 0:14:52a bit about yourself, why you wanted to be an apprentice,
0:14:52 > 0:14:54what you thought you could bring to the company.
0:14:54 > 0:14:57Then after that, you got a call back, an interview.
0:14:57 > 0:15:00You had to have a bit of background knowledge about Rolls-Royce -
0:15:00 > 0:15:01the engines or the company -
0:15:01 > 0:15:03and they test you on your knowledge on that.
0:15:03 > 0:15:05And the last one was all about you.
0:15:05 > 0:15:07You had to bring in a project you had done
0:15:07 > 0:15:09or something you had been working on.
0:15:09 > 0:15:13They also ask why you should be an apprentice, why should they choose you over anyone else.
0:15:13 > 0:15:17You have to really think about that and make yourself stand out.
0:15:17 > 0:15:19The nozzle has a spiral on it.
0:15:19 > 0:15:24That's one to scare the birds off or to show which way the fan is turning when it is in flight...
0:15:24 > 0:15:28Engineering is sometimes traditionally seen as a male occupation,
0:15:28 > 0:15:31so how is it being a female in this environment?
0:15:31 > 0:15:34You don't get treated any differently.
0:15:34 > 0:15:38I think the only thing maybe is you feel more pushed to prove yourself,
0:15:38 > 0:15:39that you can work in this environment.
0:15:39 > 0:15:41There's nothing that puts us back.
0:15:41 > 0:15:43Everyone gets on and everyone's an equal.
0:15:43 > 0:15:46So this is the CNC Section, the computer controlled milling,
0:15:46 > 0:15:48we're going to show you what happens over here now.
0:15:55 > 0:15:57Press the green button.
0:15:57 > 0:16:00Where do you see yourself being in a few years' time?
0:16:00 > 0:16:02Within my role, I can go anywhere.
0:16:02 > 0:16:05Capability acquisition, which is bringing in new projects, new ideas,
0:16:05 > 0:16:08trying to bring them through from the concept of the idea
0:16:08 > 0:16:11right through to the idea being physically there.
0:16:11 > 0:16:12There's continuous improvement,
0:16:12 > 0:16:15which is taking an old product or an old project
0:16:15 > 0:16:18and trying to see how you can make it better, how it can be improved.
0:16:18 > 0:16:22There's also the design side of it, new ideas, new concepts.
0:16:22 > 0:16:24We do a lot of workshop-based things. We're trying to disassemble
0:16:24 > 0:16:27a starter motor, and this is for a Trent 1000 jet engine.
0:16:31 > 0:16:34Although there's a firm structure to the learning,
0:16:34 > 0:16:38it's also down to the individual to make the most of their training.
0:16:38 > 0:16:41We can sit and do nothing if we want to, but if we want to get somewhere,
0:16:41 > 0:16:44it's our responsibility to get there.
0:16:44 > 0:16:46We've got to self-manage ourselves, do our own work.
0:16:46 > 0:16:49They do help us, they do push us, but it's up to us in the end.
0:16:49 > 0:16:50And are there any downsides?
0:16:50 > 0:16:54There's the NVQ, the BTEC, and there's also additional courses
0:16:54 > 0:16:55and it is a lot to take on,
0:16:55 > 0:16:58so it can get quite stressful when things build up.
0:16:58 > 0:17:00But it's worth the effort and all the hard work
0:17:00 > 0:17:03and it's one of the best decisions I've ever made in my life.
0:17:06 > 0:17:10It's time for Lewis to meet the boss and find out more.
0:17:10 > 0:17:13We've got a huge range of apprenticeship programmes
0:17:13 > 0:17:15within the organisation.
0:17:15 > 0:17:18Practical apprenticeships, technical apprenticeships,
0:17:18 > 0:17:19higher apprenticeships,
0:17:19 > 0:17:21but the variety of those roles is very broad.
0:17:21 > 0:17:25It can be engineering, manufacturing, it can be design,
0:17:25 > 0:17:28it can be leadership, it can be programme management.
0:17:28 > 0:17:30So there is a huge variety of roles that we have.
0:17:30 > 0:17:33There's a lot of competition for good apprenticeship places.
0:17:33 > 0:17:35Some employers will train you in basic skills,
0:17:35 > 0:17:39but most, like this company, will want to see decent GCSE grades,
0:17:39 > 0:17:44or equivalent qualifications, to get on Advanced Apprenticeships.
0:17:44 > 0:17:47And, for Higher Apprenticeships, you'll require strong A level,
0:17:47 > 0:17:50or equivalent, qualifications.
0:17:50 > 0:17:53For me, it's all about motivation, application and attitude.
0:17:53 > 0:17:55The round of skills we're looking for
0:17:55 > 0:17:58is the flexibility, the motivation.
0:17:58 > 0:18:00People who are really going to lead their own development
0:18:00 > 0:18:04and take accountability for their programme and develop themselves
0:18:04 > 0:18:07through a structured framework that we have in place within the company.
0:18:07 > 0:18:11So would you recommend an engineering apprenticeship to a young person?
0:18:11 > 0:18:14I started as an apprentice myself.
0:18:14 > 0:18:17I think it gives you great foundations for the rest of your career,
0:18:17 > 0:18:20so I certainly would recommend the apprenticeship pathway.
0:18:23 > 0:18:25It's been a fascinating day here.
0:18:25 > 0:18:28I'm quite amazed at the number of apprenticeships
0:18:28 > 0:18:31that are available with this world-leading company in engineering.
0:18:31 > 0:18:32I think I might go and apply now!
0:18:39 > 0:18:41Here's Beth's story.
0:18:42 > 0:18:44Hi, I'm Beth, I'm 14.
0:18:44 > 0:18:47I'm studying English, maths and science GCSEs at school.
0:18:47 > 0:18:50I really like doing science and, on a Saturday, I work here.
0:18:50 > 0:18:51Hello, Prestige.
0:18:51 > 0:18:54When I am in the salon, I take appointments,
0:18:54 > 0:18:58do quite a lot of cleaning around, make sure that it's nice and clean.
0:18:58 > 0:19:01I really like the atmosphere, they're really nice people to work with.
0:19:04 > 0:19:05I like to do my mum's nails quite a lot,
0:19:05 > 0:19:08if we are just like sat relaxing.
0:19:08 > 0:19:11If my mum isn't at home I like to be going out shopping with my dad,
0:19:11 > 0:19:15but I make sure he's got his credit card on him so I can spend his money.
0:19:15 > 0:19:17At this stage in my life, I think I need to have some good skills
0:19:17 > 0:19:19and qualifications
0:19:19 > 0:19:22so I can achieve my goal for where I want to be in the future.
0:19:22 > 0:19:25I don't really know much about an apprenticeship,
0:19:25 > 0:19:27but I think I would like to know more.
0:19:30 > 0:19:33Beth has an in-depth session with careers mentor Aimee.
0:19:33 > 0:19:36So, Beth, I'd like to know what it is that you'd like to
0:19:36 > 0:19:39- do with your career. Have you got any ideas yet?- Erm...
0:19:39 > 0:19:42well, with my career I want to make it further
0:19:42 > 0:19:44- and be involved with hairdressing and beauty therapy.- OK.
0:19:44 > 0:19:47Have you worked in a hairdressing salon before?
0:19:47 > 0:19:49I've got some experience within a salon.
0:19:49 > 0:19:52That's fantastic because when you're going for apprenticeships and when
0:19:52 > 0:19:55employers are looking for new staff, anybody that's already got that
0:19:55 > 0:19:59experience is going to... It's like they think it's tried and tested,
0:19:59 > 0:20:02you've done that, you're definitely sure this is the career
0:20:02 > 0:20:05you want to do. So your nightmare job would be?
0:20:05 > 0:20:07Sat in front of a computer all day.
0:20:07 > 0:20:10OK. So what does the dream look like then?
0:20:10 > 0:20:12Well, hopefully,
0:20:12 > 0:20:15I'll be owning my own salon doing hairdressing and beauty.
0:20:15 > 0:20:16That's fantastic.
0:20:16 > 0:20:20So, how about we organise for you to spend the day with
0:20:20 > 0:20:23one of the UK's leading hairdressers.
0:20:23 > 0:20:24- Really?- Does that sound OK?
0:20:24 > 0:20:27- Yeah, that sounds really good. - OK, let's do that then.- OK.
0:20:30 > 0:20:32Beth is spending the day with
0:20:32 > 0:20:36twice-winner of British Hairdresser of the Year Andrew Collinge.
0:20:36 > 0:20:38I think people really like to feel glamorous
0:20:38 > 0:20:40and really dress their hair well.
0:20:40 > 0:20:44He has two salons employing recent graduate apprentices
0:20:44 > 0:20:47and runs two purpose-built training academies,
0:20:47 > 0:20:51which have been classed as outstanding by Ofsted.
0:20:51 > 0:20:56Currently, he's responsible for nearly 200 apprentices.
0:20:56 > 0:20:58I think this is great. I mean, I particularly
0:20:58 > 0:21:02like the fringe area because you've made it slightly asymmetric,
0:21:02 > 0:21:05which is always really flattering rather than just too straight.
0:21:05 > 0:21:06Looks great. Really good.
0:21:08 > 0:21:09I'm ready to work.
0:21:11 > 0:21:14Beth is going to shadow 17-year-old Natasha.
0:21:14 > 0:21:17She's halfway through a two-year apprenticeship here,
0:21:17 > 0:21:21which will earn her an NVQ Level 2.
0:21:21 > 0:21:23Students can stay on for a further year to take
0:21:23 > 0:21:28an Advanced Apprenticeship, gaining an NVQ Level 3.
0:21:28 > 0:21:30Natasha shows Beth her prized possession -
0:21:30 > 0:21:34the kit case every apprentice gets when they start.
0:21:34 > 0:21:35If we open it,
0:21:35 > 0:21:40it's got everything you need inside. So you'll get all your clips,
0:21:40 > 0:21:45all your combs, your brush bag with all of your brushes in.
0:21:45 > 0:21:49How come you chose to do an apprenticeship rather than
0:21:49 > 0:21:51being on a full-time college course?
0:21:51 > 0:21:55I think it's more hands-on really if you are doing an apprenticeship
0:21:55 > 0:21:59and plus, you meet lots of new people. These are like people that
0:21:59 > 0:22:01you're going to know for quite a while
0:22:01 > 0:22:03because you're working with them for so long,
0:22:03 > 0:22:06so you're making really good friends,
0:22:06 > 0:22:08like lifetime friends maybe even.
0:22:08 > 0:22:11It's more hands-on, more practical.
0:22:11 > 0:22:15You're getting experience off watching really experienced
0:22:15 > 0:22:18people do their work and do their clients,
0:22:18 > 0:22:20so really you are just learning from watching.
0:22:20 > 0:22:22When you slide intercut, you can release the length.
0:22:22 > 0:22:25It gives the impression of the hair being a bit longer.
0:22:25 > 0:22:28- How's that? That's a top tip. - THEY LAUGH
0:22:28 > 0:22:30What subjects did you do in school
0:22:30 > 0:22:32that you find useful being a hairdresser?
0:22:32 > 0:22:35Obviously you take maths and your English and stuff like that,
0:22:35 > 0:22:38so I passed both of them.
0:22:38 > 0:22:42I found it easier with the maths to mix up the ratios with
0:22:42 > 0:22:44the colours and the peroxides,
0:22:44 > 0:22:48so even though it's on the wall next to you, you still can work it out
0:22:48 > 0:22:51in your head how much you need and how much you've got to put in,
0:22:51 > 0:22:54and then with your English, I think really it's just about speaking
0:22:54 > 0:22:58properly to the clients. It's not about changing how you speak
0:22:58 > 0:23:02or making yourself sound posh, it's just speaking correctly to them.
0:23:02 > 0:23:05Are there any downsides to having a hairdressing job?
0:23:05 > 0:23:07The only thing is that you've got to wake up at like
0:23:07 > 0:23:11six o'clock in the morning sometimes to come to work to be in for eight.
0:23:11 > 0:23:14But I love working earlies, it just make the day go so much quicker.
0:23:14 > 0:23:17How important is it to be earning money while you're training?
0:23:17 > 0:23:20You feel better earning you own money
0:23:20 > 0:23:23because you don't have to then go and ask your parents for money,
0:23:23 > 0:23:26and have to be constantly owing them money back.
0:23:26 > 0:23:29When you are working and you've got your own money
0:23:29 > 0:23:31it's fine, because you can go and do whatever you want with it
0:23:31 > 0:23:34because it's your money, you've earned it.
0:23:36 > 0:23:38We're looking for someone that's just enthusiastic.
0:23:38 > 0:23:42It doesn't necessarily have to say they can have skills at that point,
0:23:42 > 0:23:44but just really have the right attitude.
0:23:44 > 0:23:47It's really well to try and do as well as you can at school.
0:23:47 > 0:23:50Say, for example, you have a GCSE Level C and above
0:23:50 > 0:23:51in English and Maths,
0:23:51 > 0:23:54then you won't have to do what's called functional skills.
0:23:54 > 0:23:56Otherwise, when you are here part of your day will be doing
0:23:56 > 0:23:58things like arithmetic and English.
0:23:58 > 0:24:01So doing well at school can really help you. You can sort
0:24:01 > 0:24:04of fast-track and get on quicker learning how to be a hairdresser.
0:24:04 > 0:24:07That's incredible. It really is, to be able to put the hair up
0:24:07 > 0:24:10that neatly, with hair that is so long, requires real skill.
0:24:10 > 0:24:13To be doing this when you are only halfway through
0:24:13 > 0:24:15the first year of training is fantastic.
0:24:15 > 0:24:18Apprentices and hairdressing go really well together.
0:24:18 > 0:24:20Yes, when you start, it's not a particularly high wage,
0:24:20 > 0:24:22but you are being paid while you train,
0:24:22 > 0:24:25and the great thing about hairdressing is the vast majority
0:24:25 > 0:24:29of people that do an apprenticeship go on to full-time employment.
0:24:29 > 0:24:31You can work in a salon, you can own your own business,
0:24:31 > 0:24:34you can decide if you want to work on photoshoots,
0:24:34 > 0:24:37become what's called a session stylist.
0:24:37 > 0:24:40If you've got top qualifications in hairdressing, it really is
0:24:40 > 0:24:41a passport to travel the world.
0:24:41 > 0:24:45Pull it so the ponytail sort of jumps away from the head slightly.
0:24:45 > 0:24:47You can do that by taking a few sections
0:24:47 > 0:24:49and sort of wrapping it around,
0:24:49 > 0:24:52and then just put a grip in here.
0:24:52 > 0:24:56I have heard that hairdressers are quite positive and happy people.
0:24:56 > 0:24:57Is that correct?
0:24:57 > 0:24:59They do surveys from time to time and hairdressers
0:24:59 > 0:25:03invariably come out at the top of the people most happy at work.
0:25:03 > 0:25:07I think it is really good to be able to be creative all the time.
0:25:07 > 0:25:10No two hairstyles are ever the same, so every day is different.
0:25:10 > 0:25:14It's a job where you really control your own destiny.
0:25:14 > 0:25:17I think everyone who is training here today would agree with me
0:25:17 > 0:25:20that they really are in a very worthwhile career.
0:25:24 > 0:25:26I've had a really good day today.
0:25:26 > 0:25:29I've learnt a lot of being in a big teaching environment.
0:25:29 > 0:25:32As soon as I'm 16, I'm signing up for a hairdressing apprenticeship.
0:25:39 > 0:25:40Here's Evie's story.
0:25:41 > 0:25:43Hi, I'm Evie.
0:25:43 > 0:25:46I'm 15. I'm doing ten GCSEs, my favourite one is PE,
0:25:46 > 0:25:49but what I really love doing is playing football.
0:25:51 > 0:25:52I've played it since I was seven
0:25:52 > 0:25:56and it's a great feeling when you score a goal.
0:26:00 > 0:26:03I live in the Lake District, so I love outdoor activities.
0:26:03 > 0:26:05I love hill walking and I do a lot of road cycling.
0:26:05 > 0:26:09For my future, I've been considering university courses but I've also been
0:26:09 > 0:26:12looking at apprenticeships and I'd really like to find out more.
0:26:15 > 0:26:18Evie has an in-depth session with careers mentor Aimee.
0:26:18 > 0:26:19I'm into loads of different sports.
0:26:19 > 0:26:22I've played four different sports at county level.
0:26:22 > 0:26:25- Do you get involved in the coaching side of it?- Yeah.
0:26:25 > 0:26:28I help out with the PDC, which is the Play Development Centre
0:26:28 > 0:26:31in Cumbria, and I help coach the under 11s and under 9s girls.
0:26:31 > 0:26:33OK. Do you enjoy that?
0:26:33 > 0:26:35I do, I love it. I'm not bothered about money
0:26:35 > 0:26:37and that sort of stuff.
0:26:37 > 0:26:39I was going to ask what motivates you.
0:26:39 > 0:26:43I'm motivated by doing what I love doing and helping people.
0:26:43 > 0:26:46And the good thing about not being motivated by money is that
0:26:46 > 0:26:48that allows you a massive amount of freedom,
0:26:48 > 0:26:51because then you can just, "Right. What do I really love doing?"
0:26:51 > 0:26:55And make that your career and it can be done for sure. For sure.
0:26:55 > 0:26:58So taking that on board, all of the things that
0:26:58 > 0:27:01you enjoy and also the things that you are good at,
0:27:01 > 0:27:05we'll organise for you to spend the day with one of the leading
0:27:05 > 0:27:07outdoor educational centres. How does that sound?
0:27:07 > 0:27:10Sounds brilliant. I'd love to do that, yeah.
0:27:10 > 0:27:12- I think you'd be fantastic at it. - Thank you.
0:27:19 > 0:27:21Evie's going to spend the day
0:27:21 > 0:27:24shadowing apprentice outdoor learning tutor Tom.
0:27:24 > 0:27:27Go and stand over there for me, please. Go, go, go.
0:27:27 > 0:27:29So, team, may I introduce Evie.
0:27:29 > 0:27:32Evie is going to be working with us today.
0:27:32 > 0:27:34ALL: Hi, Evie!
0:27:34 > 0:27:38And it's straight in at the deep end, leading a group of inner city
0:27:38 > 0:27:40youngsters up a mountainside torrent.
0:27:42 > 0:27:44Good balancing there.
0:27:44 > 0:27:47When I came in, I didn't really have any qualifications as such.
0:27:47 > 0:27:50I've got a lot of outdoor experience,
0:27:50 > 0:27:52but I didn't have any actual pieces of paper to back that up.
0:27:52 > 0:27:56But they could see that I was keen and willing to learn.
0:27:56 > 0:27:59Tom's halfway through his year apprenticeship.
0:27:59 > 0:28:03When he's finished, he'll have an NVQ Level 3 qualification
0:28:03 > 0:28:05and a Mountain Leader Award.
0:28:05 > 0:28:09But it's not just about doing adventurous activities.
0:28:09 > 0:28:11To be a successful outdoor tutor,
0:28:11 > 0:28:14you need to know how to deal well with children.
0:28:14 > 0:28:19It's a lot about projecting the right kind of attitudes to the kids.
0:28:19 > 0:28:22If something is difficult, then you need to make them
0:28:22 > 0:28:24think that they can do it
0:28:24 > 0:28:27because a lot of them, they have the capacity to do these things,
0:28:27 > 0:28:30they just... There's an overriding discomfort there,
0:28:30 > 0:28:33because a lot of these kids have never even walked on uneven
0:28:33 > 0:28:37ground before, you know, so to take them up a mountain is a big step.
0:28:37 > 0:28:41The bigger ones can get their feet on. The littler ones can only get
0:28:41 > 0:28:43their knees on and they will come up on their knees.
0:28:43 > 0:28:49If you can, you can put your foot here. If you can. There we go.
0:28:49 > 0:28:51Brilliant.
0:28:51 > 0:28:54Why did you decide to do this sort of qualification instead
0:28:54 > 0:28:55of going to university?
0:28:55 > 0:28:58You can come out of university having spent about 48 grand
0:28:58 > 0:29:01after three or four years at uni,
0:29:01 > 0:29:04and you'd come out with maybe a couple of qualifications.
0:29:04 > 0:29:09You can learn things doing this every day that you don't
0:29:09 > 0:29:10learn in the classroom.
0:29:10 > 0:29:13Three years spent working in the outdoors versus three years
0:29:13 > 0:29:15studying the outdoors doesn't give you the same level of experience.
0:29:15 > 0:29:19Shall we carry on? Who's going to be our next leader?
0:29:19 > 0:29:21It's a bit cold, but it's good fun.
0:29:21 > 0:29:23You have to be 18 to do this apprenticeship and you
0:29:23 > 0:29:26actually live here whilst you're doing it. How do you find that?
0:29:26 > 0:29:29It's amazing, yeah. I mean, the pay's not great
0:29:29 > 0:29:32but at the end of the month I still get 400 quid in my pocket.
0:29:32 > 0:29:34I don't have any overheads. I get all my food.
0:29:34 > 0:29:36I never have to worry about anything like that,
0:29:36 > 0:29:38so you know I think it's a pretty good shout.
0:29:38 > 0:29:41And for the view that I've got, looking out across Derwent Water,
0:29:41 > 0:29:43it's second to none.
0:29:43 > 0:29:46Would you recommend doing an apprenticeship?
0:29:46 > 0:29:48Absolutely. Yes, I would.
0:29:48 > 0:29:51I think it is a superb way to spend time.
0:29:51 > 0:29:54You'll get a sound base of skills - people skills,
0:29:54 > 0:29:58group skills, teamwork skills - that will help you in any job.
0:29:58 > 0:30:03My personal confidence three years after starting down this road
0:30:03 > 0:30:06is so much greater than it was when I started.
0:30:06 > 0:30:10Yeah, I'd absolutely whole-heartedly recommend it.
0:30:10 > 0:30:12The sun's out now. Beautiful.
0:30:16 > 0:30:18I guess we are looking for some confidence of
0:30:18 > 0:30:20working with young people.
0:30:20 > 0:30:23So we are look for some evidence that apprentices have either
0:30:23 > 0:30:25worked in the past with kids,
0:30:25 > 0:30:28or they've done some volunteering like, you know, through
0:30:28 > 0:30:31sort of Scouts and Guides, or even just gone to like the local primary
0:30:31 > 0:30:35school and asked if they can sort of help out and do stuff like that.
0:30:35 > 0:30:38One more, Alexis. Hook that foot up onto the next one.
0:30:38 > 0:30:41So bring your feet up. Brilliant.
0:30:41 > 0:30:43From a skills point of view,
0:30:43 > 0:30:46if you look at sort of, you know, canoeing, kayaking, hill walking,
0:30:46 > 0:30:50rock climbing, those are like your sort of your mainstay activities.
0:30:50 > 0:30:53We're really after some strength in a couple of those,
0:30:53 > 0:30:57maybe some qualifications, even just at the basic sort of level.
0:30:57 > 0:30:59But also we are after people who have got quite
0:30:59 > 0:31:01a lot of personal experience.
0:31:01 > 0:31:04If you are working at sort of this level with kids, you need to have
0:31:04 > 0:31:06a personal experience level of something like that
0:31:06 > 0:31:11to give you a decent buffer zone in case you come across any problems.
0:31:11 > 0:31:14Would you recommend an apprenticeship as a good way in to the outdoor industry?
0:31:14 > 0:31:15Yeah, definitely.
0:31:15 > 0:31:18It's one of a number of ways in and it's one of those jobs where
0:31:18 > 0:31:21there isn't a clear career path in.
0:31:21 > 0:31:24Certainly here, it gives young people a great opportunity to come
0:31:24 > 0:31:25and be based in the Lake District
0:31:25 > 0:31:28and to get out, and when you're not working, get out
0:31:28 > 0:31:31and play in the Lake District as well, which is actually
0:31:31 > 0:31:34encouraged because it's all working on your personal experience.
0:31:34 > 0:31:36It's not a particularly well-paid industry.
0:31:36 > 0:31:39There are good jobs out there, but they are hard to get
0:31:39 > 0:31:41and you need to be good, so the younger you start,
0:31:41 > 0:31:45the more chance of sticking in you have to get those good jobs.
0:31:45 > 0:31:48Outdoor education is a kind of a worldwide phenomenon really.
0:31:48 > 0:31:50It's a fantastic opportunity to travel,
0:31:50 > 0:31:54to get a suntan and just be able to enjoy yourself,
0:31:54 > 0:31:58and do those activities in lots of different places
0:31:58 > 0:32:00and it's just wonderful.
0:32:03 > 0:32:04I've had a really good day today.
0:32:04 > 0:32:07I've seen that Tom does something which he really loves to do.
0:32:07 > 0:32:09He's earning money while he's still getting an education.
0:32:09 > 0:32:14I'm really interested to go find out more about all the different apprenticeships that are out there.
0:32:23 > 0:32:24Here's Courtney's story.
0:32:25 > 0:32:29Hi, I'm Courtney. I'm 15 years old, I'm doing seven GCSEs,
0:32:29 > 0:32:32but what I really love doing is playing with Buster.
0:32:35 > 0:32:38He's seven years old, nearly eight.
0:32:38 > 0:32:41He's really big, but he's just a really big softy.
0:32:44 > 0:32:47I like drawing. It's really creative.
0:32:47 > 0:32:50It's just a nice way of relaxing.
0:32:50 > 0:32:52I think I'm good at fixing things
0:32:52 > 0:32:56and just putting things together, practical work.
0:32:57 > 0:33:03I think I need to get some good qualifications and training behind me
0:33:03 > 0:33:05so I can get my own business.
0:33:05 > 0:33:08I don't actually know much about apprenticeships,
0:33:08 > 0:33:10but I'd really like find out more.
0:33:14 > 0:33:18So, Courtney, have you any ideas about what you would like to do?
0:33:18 > 0:33:23Yeah, I was thinking I might want to do a plumbing apprenticeship.
0:33:23 > 0:33:25OK. What's made you think down that route?
0:33:25 > 0:33:31I've always wanted to do something not so expected.
0:33:31 > 0:33:34Something different that, I suppose, girls wouldn't necessarily be
0:33:34 > 0:33:37thought of in that industry. OK. What about fixing things
0:33:37 > 0:33:40and being practical, cos plumbing is all about that, isn't it?
0:33:40 > 0:33:42Yeah. When I was a child,
0:33:42 > 0:33:45I always used to break my sister's toys just to fix them.
0:33:45 > 0:33:47- Did you really?- Yeah.
0:33:47 > 0:33:50OK. So this does sound like the type of job that you'd be very good at.
0:33:50 > 0:33:53So as part of that, do you think that this is something
0:33:53 > 0:33:56you'd like to do long-term? What does the end goal look like?
0:33:56 > 0:33:58I'd really like to get my own business.
0:33:58 > 0:34:02I've always pictured myself having my own little white van
0:34:02 > 0:34:03with my name on it.
0:34:03 > 0:34:06OK. Well, let's make it happen.
0:34:06 > 0:34:09So as part of that route then, let's look at apprenticeships.
0:34:09 > 0:34:12How about we arrange for you to go and spend the day with
0:34:12 > 0:34:15one of the most high-profile plumbing businesses in the UK?
0:34:15 > 0:34:19- How about that? Does that sound OK? - That sounds good.- Let's do that.
0:34:22 > 0:34:25Courtney is going to shadow 22-year-old Billy.
0:34:25 > 0:34:28He's recently completed a three-year apprenticeship
0:34:28 > 0:34:31here at Pimlico Plumbers in Central London
0:34:31 > 0:34:35and today, he's going to show Courtney some basic skills.
0:34:35 > 0:34:37Many companies, like this one,
0:34:37 > 0:34:41team up with a local college to offer both on-the-job training and
0:34:41 > 0:34:44a day a week spent in the classroom as part of the apprenticeship.
0:34:44 > 0:34:45I got my Level 2 NVQ
0:34:45 > 0:34:48and then that allowed me to work on plumbing,
0:34:48 > 0:34:52and toilets and bathrooms and stuff,
0:34:52 > 0:34:56and then after that, went on to do my Level 3, which then
0:34:56 > 0:35:00goes into a bit more depth and I was able to do my gas.
0:35:00 > 0:35:04So I can work on boilers and heating and stuff.
0:35:04 > 0:35:08There you go, your very first soldered joint. Not bad.
0:35:08 > 0:35:12- Not bad at all.- That felt so natural.- Yeah?- Yeah.
0:35:12 > 0:35:15That was good. That's a very good joint.
0:35:15 > 0:35:18Billy's now most of the way through a two-year extended
0:35:18 > 0:35:21training programme, which will allow him to go out on jobs
0:35:21 > 0:35:24without being supervised by a senior plumber.
0:35:24 > 0:35:28- Where do you see yourself in a couple of years time?- I'm now 22.
0:35:28 > 0:35:34I'd like to, by the time I'm 23, is to go out there and hopefully earn
0:35:34 > 0:35:3960 to £70,000 a year and then by the time I'm 30, hopefully,
0:35:39 > 0:35:44is to own my own house. That's my goal.
0:35:44 > 0:35:48What did you take from school that's helpful to you working as a plumber?
0:35:48 > 0:35:52When you are working with pipes and stuff, you need to know sizes and different equations.
0:35:52 > 0:35:55Obviously, maths always helps. English is always a good one.
0:35:55 > 0:35:59Obviously you need to have clear handwriting when you're writing stuff for customers -
0:35:59 > 0:36:01they need to be able to understand it as well as you.
0:36:01 > 0:36:04So, Courtney, what we've got here is a blocked toilet.
0:36:04 > 0:36:08I'm going to show you how to unblock one.
0:36:08 > 0:36:11Is plumbing a good job and would you recommend it?
0:36:11 > 0:36:14Plumbing is a good job. I would recommend it.
0:36:14 > 0:36:18You can't be too fussed about your nails or your hair,
0:36:18 > 0:36:19you are going to get dirty.
0:36:19 > 0:36:22Sometimes you can't always use these,
0:36:22 > 0:36:24so you've just got to go bare-handed
0:36:24 > 0:36:26and just pull out... Oh, there's something here.
0:36:26 > 0:36:28Hold up. Oh, there it is.
0:36:31 > 0:36:35Thankfully, today, for demonstration purposes,
0:36:35 > 0:36:37it's nothing worse than a chocolate bar.
0:36:37 > 0:36:39It's a good job, it's enjoyable
0:36:39 > 0:36:43and from helping a customer, you get a lot of satisfaction.
0:36:46 > 0:36:51I think what I look for most in a young person
0:36:51 > 0:36:53is determination and drive when they come in.
0:36:53 > 0:36:55You've got to have a passion for it.
0:36:55 > 0:36:59It's something that takes three to five years to do as an apprentice,
0:36:59 > 0:37:03and then you actually become a plumber at the end of that, you know.
0:37:03 > 0:37:05It feels like it's going to break!
0:37:05 > 0:37:09So how much do you earn when you are an apprentice plumber
0:37:09 > 0:37:11and how much can you earn when you are fully qualified?
0:37:11 > 0:37:17I would say that apprentices are not paid the greatest whichever
0:37:17 > 0:37:21company they work for, however, it's not a short-term thing.
0:37:21 > 0:37:24At the end of it, the earning potential is great,
0:37:24 > 0:37:26it's fantastic, it's huge.
0:37:26 > 0:37:31Our plumbers in London can earn, on average, about £50,000 a year,
0:37:31 > 0:37:35but if they put more work in and more hours in, they can earn
0:37:35 > 0:37:39anything up to £100,000 a year and some even slightly more than that.
0:37:39 > 0:37:40But they are working hard for that.
0:37:40 > 0:37:43But we always say, you know, the money that you can earn has
0:37:43 > 0:37:48to be honest and it has to be for a quality service that you deliver
0:37:48 > 0:37:52and that's something that all trades people should aspire to.
0:37:52 > 0:37:55Do you think it's a good job for a woman to get into?
0:37:55 > 0:38:01I think plumbing or any of the trades are an excellent trade for women to get into.
0:38:01 > 0:38:07Although people may think it's a bit unusual being a girl turn up
0:38:07 > 0:38:10in a plumber's van and toolbox, they do like it
0:38:10 > 0:38:15and the girls who work for us, they remain extremely busy,
0:38:15 > 0:38:19they have great clientele and they are really highly thought of.
0:38:19 > 0:38:20I'd recommend it.
0:38:23 > 0:38:25It's been a great day.
0:38:25 > 0:38:26I've had lots of fun.
0:38:26 > 0:38:30I've learnt a lot and now I know that I want to be a plumber.
0:38:42 > 0:38:43Subtitles by Red Bee Media Ltd