Redrow apprentice builds career in Europe

An apprentice carpenter from Plymouth is building the framework for his future career after being selected for an exchange visit to an elite European college.

Peter Grimes, 24, who lives in West Park will be joining eight other hand-picked students from City College Plymouth for a two-week stay at The Apprenticeship and Training Centre for Carpenters in Biberach, Southern Germany, after being selected for their quality work and positive feedback from employers.

Peter, who works for Redrow Homes in Plymouth and Tavistock, will fly to Germany on June 27, to participate in a challenging programme of tasks. These will include constructing models for traditional German timber-based homes and building a complex bridge featured in one of Leonardo Da Vinci’s drawings.

The trip has been funded by the Leonardo Da Vinci European Exchange Scheme (Education & Culture).

The visit to the renowned college is something Peter is really looking forward to, as he explains: “The whole point of the trip is to broaden our knowledge on the different types of carpentry methods used in other countries.”

“The German college is highly praised for its quality tutoring so I can’t wait to learn even more skills that I can transfer to my work here at Redrow, which will hopefully make me a better carpenter - it will be an eye-opening experience I’m sure.”

Peter has worked for the award-winning developer for the last two years and has gained first hand carpentry knowledge and experience working on projects such as Vision @ Devonport, in Plymouth, and more recently at Tiddy Brook Meadows in Tavistock, where he is helping to build a range of two, three and four-bedroom homes.

He combines his on-the-job training with his studies at City College and is due to complete his three year apprenticeship in 2011.

Bob Sowden, construction director for Redrow Homes (South West) said: “We are delighted that Peter has been picked for the exchange visit. He is a hard worker and a valuable addition to the Redrow team so fully deserves this opportunity. We aim to give our apprentices as much hands-on experience as possible and encourage other ways of broadening their knowledge. This trip will certainly enrich his individual apprenticeship experience and add to his skills.”

Peter’s success comes as Redrow prepares to recruit 10 new bricklaying and carpentry apprentices in England and Wales this summer. They will be chosen from candidates exclusively registered with Construction Skills (CITB).

Bob adds: “Apprentices are the future skilled trades of our industry and it’s important that companies continue to invest in young talent even in these more challenging times.”

To find out more about applying for an apprenticeship with Redrow visit redrow.co.uk/pages/careers/apprenticeships. For details of new homes go to redrow.co.uk.