Case Study: Laurelle Hodgetts

Laurelle Hodgetts is 19 years old and started an apprenticeship in Trowel Occupations with HB Training in 2006. Having completed all of the aptitude and selection tests, she commenced the Intermediate Construction Award.

Laurelle went on placement with Bramhall Construction on a social housing project. She received excellent reports from Bramhall, who were impressed with the quality of her work. Unfortunately they were not able to offer her a full time position and Laurelle completed her full framework prior to her expected completion date – mainly due to her continued hard work and commitment.

On completion, Laurelle was offered a full time job as a bricklayer with Haywood Construction in Sheffield. Unfortunately due to the economic climate she was made redundant. It was at this stage that HB Training had the opportunity to offer Laurelle a full time position as a Reviewer/Bricklaying Assistant. It is to her credit that she continues to make progress in a traditionally male dominated industry.

“I began my apprenticeship with HB Training in 2006,” says Laurelle. “I chose bricklaying because I like doing manual tasks, being on my feet and keeping busy. The apprenticeship lasted 18 months and was a mix of centre based training and on site job experience with construction companies. I loved it straight away. It was even better than what I had expected it to be like.

“I did three different placements on different sites, allowing me to gather enough evidence for my NVQ in Trowel Trades. After getting my NVQ and CSCS card I started working with a local construction firm. Unfortunately they had to lay off some people so I started working with another builder.

“I’d always stayed in touch with HB Training and when Graham, the Centre Manager, asked if I wanted to come back and work there as a Brickwork Assistant and Reviewer I jumped at the chance. Now I review all of the apprentices every 10 weeks and I work with them to teach brickwork and assist in delivering the training. I love it – because I’ve experienced it all myself I can pass on my knowledge. It’s really interesting work.

“People ask me about working in a male dominated environment and I say I don’t care what people think – I’m as good as the next man! I’d tell any girl coming into construction to go for it. You just need to fit in and you’ll find that everyone gets treated the same.

“Businesses who are thinking about taking on an apprentice can really benefit from the enthusiasm and effort that an apprentice puts in. I’d say give an apprentice a go.”