Chris J.

Chris, from Withywood, was a late starter as an apprentice, not applying to On-Site Bristol until nearly four years after he had left school. During that time he’d had a few different jobs and been on some other training courses, but wanted to settle down into learning a trade he enjoyed and could give him a secure future.

He started his Painting & Decorating training with a year’s full-time further education at City of Bristol College, in September 2004. Chris was the last of his year group to find employment, not succeeding in finding one until July 2005. He did not let this hold him back though and he was able to complete his Apprenticeship on time in August 2006.

Chris has now progressed onto an Advanced Apprenticeship, is very highly regarded by his employer and has recently received national recognition for his skills, winning the 10th annual Apprentice Paperhanger competition, organised by the Painting & Decorating Association (PDA). Chris competed with apprentices from across the country at heats held in Nottingham.

He had to demonstrate his ability to match and cut paper accurately, get levels on borders correct and make sure that wallpaper was applied smoothly without blisters. Chris was one of 3 finalists invited to the PDA’s annual conference where the winner was announced. Chris's supervisor has supported the training and development of apprentices for a number of years “We are all very proud of Chris, he has worked hard and is developing the skills required to become a very good decorator.”

Marc B.

Marc comes from Easton, was a pupil at Whitefield and completed an Entry to Employment programme before starting as a Painting & Decorating Apprentice with On-Site Bristol in June 2004.

Marc has shown excellent initiative in being On-Site Bristol’s first Painting & Decorating Apprentice to complete his Framework, in July 2006. In his second year, Marc had to find a new employer and continually completed all actions set by On-Site Bristol to collect the required evidence to complete his NVQ.

Marc is now a qualified tradesman. Both he and his employer have decided that he will not progress onto an Advanced Apprenticeship.

Marc was awarded “Best in Trade – Painting & Decorating” at the on-Site Bristol Awards Ceremony in October 2006, winning himself an engraved trophy, framed certificate and £100 in tools vouchers.