Apprenticeships: Rosie’s Story – 1 April 2025

Apprenticeships are a way back into education and a career path for those who missed out at school.

Rosie’s story by Lvy Jason Clark CIPHE Vice President.

Rosie left school with little qualifications due to her family circumstances. When Rosie was offered the chance of an apprenticeship with a plumbing company, she approached a local college who told her that she did not have the relevant qualifications to access a plumbing course.

I was approached by Tier Blundell, CEO of an organisation called “Excluded from School” (excludedfromschool.com) who helps young people that have been excluded from mainstream school. I had worked with Tier previously and he asked if I could offer help in finding Rosie a college placement, as she had been offered an apprenticeship by an employer and her first-choice college rejected her due to not having the relevant qualifications to enrol onto a plumbing course.

After reaching out and with the help and advice of, Paul Merrifield, who specialises is training and compliance, and Lyv Jerry Whiteley, Technical Manager at the CIPHE, we were able to find Rosie a college place that was willing to help her with additional tutoring so she could access and start her plumbing apprenticeship course.

In a recent statement from Rosie, she said.

“I didn’t think my life was going anywhere I was comfortable doing a cleaning job and not really pushing myself or my potential until I was approached with an opportunity to start a plumbing apprenticeship. But, without having any real knowledge or background in the industry or even qualifications from school, I didn’t think it was possible, however, I took the opportunity on with an open mind and on a whim. Since joining I’ve never felt more optimistic and hopeful about my future ever since leaving school. The team I’m working with are excellent and very comforting in making me feel part of a team and value my efforts no matter how small. I’m also very grateful for my college place as my tutor and classmates (although much younger than me) are very welcoming as I did feel apprehensive at first being the only girl on my course. It’s great to get and feel respect in a very male dominated industry.”

It is wonderful to see Rosie thriving and enjoying her apprenticeship. Rosie’s story shows the important role that all of us can play as experienced Livery members to encourage and help learners on the path to becoming plumbers of the future.

My thanks go to Jery Whiteley, Paul Merrifield and Tier Blundell.

Jason