Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week: Our Talented Team
29 January 2024
This year, National Apprenticeship Week runs from 5th–11th February, with the theme ‘Skills for Life’. We love this theme, which highlights how an apprenticeship can give you the skills and specialist knowledge needed to forge a successful career in your chosen industry.
We’re very proud of our apprenticeship scheme at Bagnalls, which has produced some talented painters and decorators over the years. Many of our apprentices have gone on to become fully qualified members of our team, win awards and even progress their careers to attain management and directorial positions.
This National Apprenticeship Week, we thought we’d take a look at some of our favourite learning and teaching memories from both our current and ex-apprentices.
Joel Mortlock – Group Academy Tutor
Joel has been a part of our Bagnalls family for almost 10 years. Beginning his career as an apprentice, Joel now trains the new generation of talent as our Group Academy Tutor.
“The best part about my job is getting to see Bagnalls invest time and dedication in every single apprentice who comes through our doors. I have experienced this caring, compassionate approach first-hand and love helping to push our apprentices to unlock their full potential at our Training Academy.
“I have personal experience of the exciting opportunities Bagnalls’ apprentices are given. One of my proudest achievements is my 2015 PPG Young Painter of the Year win. Without the support of Bagnalls, the advice of my tutor at the Training Academy and the invaluable practical experience provided by my apprenticeship, I wouldn’t even have put myself forward for the competition, let alone won it!”
Katie Sanders – Apprentice
Katie is currently one year into completing her apprenticeship with us. She previously worked in the catering industry as a chef before deciding to diversify her skills and apply to work within the painting and decorating industry.
“I love being able to work on lots of different tasks and projects with Bagnalls – I’m never stuck doing the same thing over and over! If I ever need advice, help, or just a laugh, I know I can turn to my co-workers. Everyone I work with is so friendly and always willing to suggest different ways to complete a job.
“I’ve really expanded my skills during my apprenticeship – I can now successfully apply wallpaper to a high standard and I can also achieve a marbled finish. I’m looking forward to gaining even more experience and getting to grips with more advanced skills.”
Max Rollinson – Trainee Contracts Manager
Max has come a long way during his apprenticeship with us and he is currently training to become a fully-fledged Contracts Manager. He applied for his apprenticeship with Bagnalls after finishing his studies at college, while he was working for supermarket chain Waitrose.
“For me, the best part about my job is the people I get to work with. Everyone within the Bagnalls team is helpful, friendly and supportive. I’ve learnt loads and progressed quickly with the help of those around me, who are always willing to offer me advice and helpful suggestions.
“I also really enjoy the fact that I get to work across a variety of tasks and I’m never stuck doing repetitive jobs. The painting and decorating industry is always developing and there are plenty of opportunities to find what works for you and discover where your strengths lie.”
Lee Jeyes – Regional Director
Lee began his career with us 36 years ago as an apprentice. He has now progressed through the ranks to become one of our Regional Directors, helping to shape the business and how it operates today.
“When I began my apprenticeship with Bagnalls immediately after leaving school, I never dreamed I would be in the position that I am today! I love the sense of belonging and opportunities for growth that Bagnalls provides everyone in its team with – from apprentices, through to directors.
“Throughout my time at Bagnalls, I feel I have had a direct impact on the success of the company. My apprenticeship has shaped my career path by providing me with practical skills, opportunities for professional growth and a strong knowledge base. It was a truly unbelievable experience that continues to benefit me today!”
We love the fact that Bagnalls’ apprenticeship scheme has helped so many people shape the future of their careers and get started in an industry they love. If you’re looking to kickstart your own career in the painting and decorating space, check out our apprenticeship scheme and learn more about how we can support you.