Mat is an Apprentice Electrician with Darke & Taylor. After completing GCSEs at Gosford Hill School, Mat started his 4 year Apprenticeship in July 2014.

Why did you choose to do an Apprenticeship?

I didn’t want to stay on at school and felt I wanted to get a trade behind me and learn whilst I earn.

How did you find out about your Apprenticeship?

I looked at different companies' websites before sending an application to Darke & Taylor. After reading on their website about their Apprenticeship scheme, I thought it sounded interesting.                                                                

What have you gained from your Apprenticeship?

Some of the main skills that I have gained so far include confidence and more knowledge, such as containment, wiring, setting out and being able to read and understand drawings.

What do you plan to do next?

I plan to become an approved electrician and progress through the company.

How will your Apprenticeship help you achieve this?

My Apprenticeship allows me to learn the skills I will need, both on site and at JTL colleges.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about doing an Apprenticeship?

I would recommend an Apprenticeship as it allows you to venture out into the working environment, learning from an experienced workforce in all areas. You are able to ascertain their years of knowledge and hands on experience, and to me, it’s important to have a trade behind you.

My dream has always been to be an actor, I’ve always wanted to be on stage. But I didn’t just want to work in a coffee shop waiting for that ‘yes’ one day when I might get famous. I might need money one day, for example if I have a family. After my four year Apprenticeship I will be fully qualified at the age of 21. I can still do some acting and I will always have my trade and my qualifications under my belt.

Don’t give up on your dreams, but be realistic. Sit down and think about what you’re doing and the decisions you’re making.

What advice would you give to an employer who is considering employing an Apprentice?

Employing an Apprentice can help to increase a company’s reputation. All the funding for the Apprenticeship is supplied by JTL which hopefully encourages companies to take more on.

How do you feel about becoming an Apprenticeship Ambassador?

I feel pleased to be given this opportunity and hope I can encourage other people to do the same.

See Mat talking about his Apprenticeship on That's TV Oxfordshire: