This month we ask Seb Bentley at award-winning property developers Kebbell to tell us a little more about a day in the life of a construction apprentice.
How long have you worked in the construction industry and what made you want to join?
I have been working in the industry for around a year and a half now, but I was really into construction since a young age. At first I studied engineering at college and was also working for my dad part time as he is a joiner. I needed some work experience for my college course and was offered a week’s official work experience on the Cornelian Fields development for Kebbell. I put absolutely everything I had into that week and was really happy when they offered me a job with them.
What are your ambitions?
I love working in construction management, it is something I am really passionate about. I am 18 years old but I am looking to become a Trainee Assistant Manager as soon as I can. I have been training for a year and have another year of training to go and attend Redcar College of Technology doing a BTEC Diploma at the same time.
What sort of work is involved in your job?
The best thing about the job is the array of tasks that I do from stock taking to quality control, helping organise the trades or getting a house ready pre-plastering. I help with snagging and checking specifications, as well as these days checking everyone has got the right PPE.
How long do you stay on a project at any one time?
I have only worked at Cornelian Fields in Scarborough so far but that has been a really exciting project as we move through the phases. The fourth phase has just been launched which is another 106 homes so we are very busy!
What does your typical day look like?
I get up about 0620 and have a shower and then I am off just before 7am, ready to start work for 8am, five days a week. I have quite a big commute of around an hour each way, so it is a long day. I finish on site around 1630. Pre-Covid days I would go the gym but now I work out at home.
What is the best thing about your job?
I love the variety and it keeps the day flowing. We work as a really smooth team with the trades. Each day is different and I am always learning new things. Specification changes may happen so we might have planned to build in a certain way but then have to change tack. Work never stops on a building site!
What skills do you need for your job?
I want to be an assistant manager as soon as possible. I plan to do a two-year HNC course in September and then I will see what happens from then. There are lots of other courses I am interested in like safety and scaffolding courses. I want to take on more responsibility and roles as soon as I can. I like being relied upon and being part of the team, the development, and the sector.
What has been your proudest moment?
My proudest moment was after that first week of work experience when I was offered the job. I wanted to put everything I could into that week to really take hold of the opportunity and for my passion to be noticed. I had to prove myself that week so I really went for it!
How has Covid-19 affected your job?
There are a lot of new things about working on site now. I help organise the timetables to make sure there aren’t too many people on site at any one time and that lunch breaks are spread out to minimise contact. I check everyone has the right PPE, check the toilets and make sure hand sanitisers everywhere are regularly topped up. We created a one-way walk system too which works really well. The work force are happy to be safety compliant of course because we all understand the reasons. Everything has run smoothly.
What do you like to do outside of the job?
I am really sporty. I have recently taken up surfing which I really like. I take my health seriously – I play cricket, work out, count my macros and have quite a physical job too.
What is the most important thing about building a home?
The fine finishing detail is what really makes a difference and everyone caring about what they are creating.
To find out more visit https://kebbell.co.uk
