Ask an apprentice - Alicia

Plumbing and Heating Apprentice, Alicia, was the last to join our new cohort of trade apprentices at the end of 2021, as she had to give notice on her previous role, working with children in a wrap-around school childcare setting.

"I enjoyed working with children, but I consider that this opportunity with Progress will lead to a lifelong career.

"The apprenticeship is completely different to anything I've been used to so far - in a good way! It is a hands-on job, but I like pushing myself out of my comfort zone. I feel like I'm doing something useful and no day has been the same so far!

"The best bits have been helping tenants by working in their properties, and learning from my mentor, Lee, who has been helping me so much.

"I've been independent from my family for a while now, and while living in Progress Housing Group accommodation, I took the opportunity to ask for help from Progress Futures, who help people with their skills, training, education and employment needs. Cathy from Progress Futures has been really supportive. When we spoke about the opportunity to apply for this apprenticeship, she really made me feel like I could do it - and helped give me the confidence to do it by myself.

"My best friend was surprised when I told her I was going into plumbing and heating, especially as it's still mostly men working in this area. But she was over the moon for me, which meant a lot."

"What am I most proud of? That I've achieved this by myself."

Employment and skills support

How to get help finding or applying for an apprenticeship at Progress Housing Group:

If you are interested in an apprenticeship or training opportunity at Progress Housing Group, or would like to discuss your training and apprenticeship options within the Lancashire area, please contact Progress Futures on 03333 204 555 or at enquiries@progressgroup.org.uk, or visit the Progress Futures page on our website by clicking here.