Apprentice Archie takes on repairs’ role in his community
A repairs apprentice has taken up a new role – working on the estate where he lives.
After impressing colleagues with his work ethic and high standard of work during his initial 12-month contract with The Wrekin Housing Group’s repairs team – seventeen-year-old Archie Duffill has now started a 2-year apprentice with the organisation.
Archie will combine working on the Castle Vale estate with attending college. Archie will work on the estate as part of Wrekin’s contract to deliver a repairs and maintenance service for The Pioneer Group.
Having completed a year studying electrical installation at college, the former Greenwood Academy pupil heard of the Employment Support services offered at Compass Support and approached the team for advice and guidance.
Compass Support is the charitable arm of The Pioneer Group providing various support services, and runs several initiatives to help people into work,
During one such session, the team discussed Archie’s experience and identified him as an ideal candidate to join Wrekin’s repairs team.
Archie said:
“I’m over the moon to have been given this opportunity and be a part of The Wrekin Group’s repairs team. The fact that I am working in the community where I grew up makes it extra special.
“This training will set me up with experience in my chosen career of being an electrician and by working in a team of tradesmen from electricians and decorators to plasterers and plumbers, I will be learning lots of new skills each and every day.”
Jason Yates, Maintenance Projects Manager with The Wrekin Housing Group said:
“Everyone has been really impressed with Archie since he joined us.
“He works incredibly hard and we have had nothing but positive feedback – about both the quality of his work and his rapport with tenants. Staff in our repairs team require a high skill level and we ensure all our team receive the proper support and training. This apprenticeship will allow Archie to get further on-the-job training whilst undertaking additional studies and qualifications at college.”
Sam Hine, Social Value and Inclusion Manager with The Wrekin Housing Group said:
“By working together with our partners, we can create positive opportunities for people in the communities we live and work in. Archie’s story is a great example of how this can work successfully for both the company and local people. We are proud to be able to support Archie in achieving his aspirations and look forward to helping him to grow and develop further over the next two years.”
9th July 2021