Becoming a Bricklaying Apprentice with Louis Hay

Louis Hay, 19 from Meir is steaming ahead towards success on his final year of his Level 2 bricklaying apprenticeship. Having recently become a dad, he is looking forward to prepare for his future as a self-employed bricklayer to support his family.

Choosing an apprenticeship

After leaving school, Louis really wasn't sure what to do on his career path. Having chosen construction at Stoke-on-Trent College he soon realised in his second year, the college route wasn't for him and he wanted something more hands-on! 

Louis heard about Achieve Training from one of his friends, applied on our pre-apprenticeship programme and chose bricklaying. Having had training and support needed from our staff, he soon progressed into an apprenticeship with local employer Adam Mitchell – working on building sites and helping to produce a variety of brickwork projects.  

Louis said: "With an apprenticeship you get to learn the skills you need, get work experience and earn a wage. It's perfect for me as it means I'm able to have a social life, save money and work with a local employer."

Becoming a qualified bricklayer was more important than ever to Louis, having recently become a dad. 

Louis said: "I can't believe I'm a dad it's opened my eyes to know someone is relying on me and I really want to do the best I can so my child grows up having myself as a great example of what you can achieve by working hard."

Louis is now in his second year of his Level 2 bricklaying apprenticeship and is hoping to carry on growing his skills in full-time employment with the hopes of being self-employed in the near future. 

Advice for school leavers

Louis states: "My advice for people coming out of school is don't follow your friends to college, make sure you think about what you want as you are potentially wasting time doing something that's not for you. Becoming an apprentice was one of the best things I've ever done and for anyone wanting a career in construction I strongly recommend Achieve Training."

Would you like to follow in Louis's footsteps and become a bricklayer? Apply today to join our pre-apprenticeship programmes and start your career.