Like many businesses in construction, engineering, and manufacturing, we faced an industry-wide skills shortage and an aging workforce. We recognised the need to build a sustainable talent pipeline to secure our future, preserve specialist skills, and develop the next generation of technical leaders. Traditional recruitment alone couldn’t meet our long-term needs, so we chose a proactive solution to develop people with the exact skills, behaviors, and values that align with our business.
Prior to starting my apprenticeship, I completed A-Levels in English Language, Sport, and Psychology. While researching universities, I realised the financial cost of higher education would be incredibly high, which prompted me to explore apprenticeships instead. I initially looked into joinery, but my dad, who also works at William Hare, told me about the fabrication apprenticeship, and I decided to give it a shot. At first, I had very little knowledge of what the job actually entailed, but I knew that wouldn’t hold me back because the entire point of an apprenticeship is to learn as you go.
Apprenticeships offer the ideal blend of practical experience and qualifications, allowing individuals to learn while contributing to our business from day one. Unlike traditional training, they provide a structured pathway combining technical knowledge with long-term career development. We chose Derwent Training because of their strong reputation, industry expertise, and commitment to supporting both learners and employers. Their collaborative approach has helped us create a programme that delivers meaningful outcomes for our apprentices and tangible value for our business.
Three years into my journey, the opportunities have been incredible. Highpoints include delivering a live interview at Co-op Live for National Inclusion Week and winning the ‘Apprentice of the Year’ award at Derwent Training, paired with an award nomination from my employer. I have also loved stepping up as a mentor at open evenings, encouraging the next generation of talent to consider apprenticeships by sharing the tangible ways it has accelerated my own professional growth.
Rhionne made a vital contribution to the Sizewell C project, working alongside senior fabricators to build a massive 26-ton jetty frame over a six-week period. She successfully navigated complex build sequences, fabricating and welding individual parts safely and efficiently. Both her team and inspectors were thoroughly impressed by her exceptional work ethic and quality. Beyond the workshop, Rhionne acts as a brilliant company ambassador, sharing her positive journey in promotional interviews for Wincanton and Castle Employment to inspire future apprentices.
The impact has been incredibly positive, bringing fresh enthusiasm that energizes our teams and allows experienced staff to develop coaching skills. Like many employers, we initially worried about the time and resources required to support apprentices. In reality, the structured programme and support from our training partners made the process far easier than expected. The return on investment has significantly outweighed our initial hesitation; our apprentices quickly became highly productive, drastically strengthening our long-term retention, capability, and succession planning.
Training at Derwent has completely transformed my technical knowledge. Although I mostly focus on MIG welding at work, my apprenticeship has allowed me to master TIG and MMA welding as well. Expanding my skill set across different techniques has given me a huge confidence boost and opened up brilliant new opportunities for my future.
Apprenticeships are a fundamental part of our long-term strategy, helping us actively address industry skills shortages and secure a consistent pipeline of future leaders across multiple disciplines. Don’t view apprenticeships as a short-term cost — see them as a vital, long-term investment. If you provide the right workplace support and opportunities, apprentices will quickly transform into some of your most engaged, loyal, and high-performing employees, driving business innovation and sustainable growth for many years to come.
Apprenticeships are an incredible option for anyone looking to earn a living while they learn. For me, I wanted a hands-on career that would keep me mentally challenged, while ensuring I came out with a formal qualification at the end. By choosing this route, I haven’t just gained theoretical knowledge; I’ve backed it up with years of real-world experience. This journey has caused my workplace confidence to skyrocket. I now feel completely comfortable sharing my ideas and expressing my opinions in a professional environment. Throughout it all, I have felt incredibly supported by both my brilliant colleagues at William Hare and the dedicated team at Derwent Training.