As proud champions of apprenticeships in Hull, we love sharing the success stories and progress of our apprentices here at Hull College.
 
We caught up with 16-year-old Kieran Hawker, Plumbing Apprentice at K Binks (Heating) Ltd, during National Apprenticeship Week 2022 to find out why he chose to do an apprenticeship and what his experience has been so far.
 
What made you apply for an apprenticeship?
The fact that it would provide me with more hands-on work experience. Another bonus to an apprenticeship is that it allows you to work and learn at the same time. I went into the process with a firm belief that an apprenticeship was the best route to go down for myself - and everything I've experienced over the past four months has reinforced that belief.
 
What inspired you to take on this particular role?
I was interested in a number of specialist roles - such as electrical engineering, heating, plumbing and air conditioning - but in the end I opted of Plumbing. Plumbing is an industry with a lot of history - thousands of years - and it's a service that people and businesses up and down the country are always going to need. It's a great industry to get into and when the opportunity arose, I jumped at the chance.
 
What do you like most about being an apprentice?
I do like the fact that I'm still learning - both at college and in the workplace. There's always new situations popping up in Plumbing and every day is an opportunity to learn and develop my skills. I feel as though I've become more mature throughout my time on the apprenticeship to-date. My time-management skills have improved massively.
 
How have you benefitted from your experiences on the apprenticeship so far?
The biggest thing so far is the many life lessons and skills I've picked up as a result of being an apprentice. And it helps in everyday life too! If I have an issue at home with my taps or anything like that, I can have a go at fixing it. And it's the same with any of my family members as well.
 
How has the learning side of the apprenticeship at the college been for you?
Very good! The balance of work and college is just right. Obviously, I'm learning an awful lot by being at work, but I'm also learning so much at college as well. And it's different learning experience being in a workshop at an educational facility. Being willing to learn is key to any apprenticeship and you do have to embrace the challenges.
 
Would you recommend an apprenticeship to others?
Definitely! I would 100% recommend an apprenticeship to school leavers or anyone that is considering going down that route. Not enough people are aware that there is an option of an apprenticeship in most fields and that it can take you anywhere. Learning and working at the same time teaches you so many life skills that will only benefit you later in life and aid your career progression.

If full-time study is not for you then an apprenticeship can help you get started in your new career! Like Dylan, you'll get real work experience, gain job skills and knowledge, and study towards a relevant qualification. The quickest way into an apprenticeship is to apply for one of our current vacancies, which you can view here.

Don’t worry if there isn’t one that’s right for you though, get in touch with the team on 0300 330 2010 or via email at apprenticeships@hull-college.ac.uk to find out how they can help.