Handy carpentry and joinery apprentices create their own workshop 

Handy apprentices from Blackburn College are helping to create their own workshop as a way of developing their skills. 

First-year Carpentry and Joinery apprentices were tasked with transforming a space within the College’s Construction Centre into a new workshop that they will benefit from as part of their course and support their skills at work.  

The apprentices identified what the needs were for the space and designed the layout of the workshop.  

Mike Wall, Carpentry and Joinery Assessor said: “An area of the College’s Construction Centre was identified to use as a project opportunity to develop students’ emerging skills. It was a blank canvas and so we thought it would be a good project for the first-year apprentices to get involved with.  

“We aligned the project to the knowledge, skills and behaviours within the apprenticeship standard, giving apprentices exposure to a real working environment. Students have been able to use all the power tools and have gained experience working on a busy job site within a large team.” 

Reece Wilkinson, from Accrington who is doing his apprenticeship at PW Joinery in Accrington, said: “I’ve really enjoyed being involved in creating the new workshop. It’s been a great chance to learn new skills including laying batons and installing boards.  

“It’s nice to leave our mark on the College, and to think that future students will be able to learn in the workshop we have created. The apprenticeship has been great so far, I’m really enjoying the hands-on practical learning aspect of the apprenticeship, and the variety of work each day brings.” 

Blackburn College Principal and Chief Executive Dr Fazal Dad said: “As a college we are always looking for new ways to enhance our students’ learning opportunities, and the workshop is a great example of this. 

“It’s fantastic to see our students rising up to the challenge of creating their own learning environment and leaving us with a host of new skills that will equip them for their future careers.” 

Blackburn College has a range of apprenticeship vacancies available and has opportunities for both students and businesses. 

If you are interested in an Apprenticeship at Blackburn College or interested in hiring an apprentice, visit our apprenticeships page: Apprenticeships | Blackburn College