Brad Lines
After completing an apprenticeship in carpentry Brad wanted to push himself further and has now become the first person to attain the Level 4 Construction Site Supervisor (CSS) apprenticeship with NHBC and Redrow.
Read moreLeeanna Smith, Redrow
“I’m really proud of being able to say I have built quite a few things! For example, walls with lots of different details."
- Name
- Leeanna Smith
- Company
- Redrow
- Apprenticeship
- Bricklaying
- What made you choose an apprenticeship?
I prefer being outdoors instead of being indoors and I wanted to make some money. My brother also works in bricklaying, so it made sense to follow his path.
- How does it feel being a female on site?
It was a bit awkward at first because some people don’t know how to approach you, and I didn’t know how to approach them. But once I broke the ice, it was all fine. I feel supported by my manager Allison who I can call up at any time and she’ll come and help me. Everyone is nice.
- Did anything put you off doing the bricklaying apprenticeship?
I came in confidently and wasn’t too worried, I just went in head first.
- Would you recommend construction for women?
Yes, I would. At the start you do feel a bit intimidated, but as the days go by you realise everyone’s just getting on with their job and are really nice.
- What are your short-term and long-term goals?
I would like to work my way up and become a site manager and ultimately run my own business. Once you know how to do everything, it makes sense to run your own company.
- What has been your favourite part of your apprenticeship?
I’m really proud of being able to say I have built quite a few things! For example, walls with lots of different details. I have helped create bay windows which are quite challenging so it’s hard work, but very rewarding. Seeing the result of your work makes you really proud of yourself. It makes you want to keep going seeing that final product.
- What advice would you give to people thinking about an apprenticeship?
I would say to just go for it – you’ll never regret it!
I’ve enjoyed the course and I really liked the mix of one-to-one support and the chance to learn on your own.
It’s been great and the NHBC assessors very helpful. The online learning portal has been easy to use and is where we can upload examples of our work and complete tests and coursework.
I have enjoyed learning about the house-building processes. It’s filled so many gaps I had in my knowledge and it’s good to now be able to walk around the site being able to apply this new knowledge in reality.
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