Success story: A family's journey with our Bicester Construction Skills Centre apprenticeship programme

One family's story of how Bicester Construction Skills Centre is supporting the next generation of tradesmen

At Abingdon & Witney College, we pride ourselves on creating a nurturing, supportive, and extraordinary environment for all our learners. Recently, we had the pleasure of speaking with parent of one of our dedicated apprentices, who shared their experience with our Carpentry programme at Bicester Construction Skills Centre, highlighting how it has positively impacted their family.

The journey began with Leo, the eldest son of Ian Burnell, of Ebbsfleet Joinery Ltd; who completed his Level 2 Carpentry at another institution. When the time came to advance to Level 3, they wanted a programme that offered not only an education but a supportive and welcoming environment, along with modern up-to-date facilities. Their search led them to Bicester Construction Skills Centre, where they immediately felt the difference.

"When we walked in, it felt just like one big family. It was absolutely fantastic", Ian shared. "We knew straight away that this was where our son needed to be. The support and personal attention at Bicester were exactly what we were looking for."

A tailored approach to learning

One of the standout features of our apprenticeship programme is the personalised support we provide to each learner. Ian’s second son, Beau, who required some additional support with maths and English, also found the encouragement and guidance he needed at our Bicester campus. "The College was fantastic in helping him. The environment here is very small and personal, and the support is always available."

According to Mark French, Head of Bicester Construction Skills Centre: “This tailored approach extends beyond the classroom. Our dedicated team members like Katie and Andy, have gone above and beyond to ensure that every student receives the attention they need to succeed. Whether it's tracking progress, offering additional tutoring, or simply being available to answer questions, our team is committed to the success of our students.”

A bright future ahead

With Leo finishing up his Level 3 course, Beau coming up to his second year of Level 2 and Jem, the third son having recently enrolled, the family continues to trust Bicester with their children's education. Their father's pride is evident as he speaks of his sons' growth and achievements. "It's lovely to see them both progress. There are occasions where I stand back and look at them, very proudly, and think, you've come so far, and you’ll be excellent carpenters. A result from being at work with me and the added impact of the college as well."

Ian also emphasised the broader benefits of an apprenticeship, noting how it prepares young people for adult life. "Apprenticeships are a good way to go for a lot of people. You're out, you're earning money, your training's paid for, and you're saving while you do your apprenticeship."

We’re proud of how our apprenticeship programme helps students develop both technical and practical skills that are essential in today’s industry. Ian highlighted this, saying, "They’re doing stuff with their portfolios that I wouldn’t be able to help them with. Their skills with the laptops and putting things onto their portfolio - that’s purely from the College because laptops aren’t my strong point."

Ian also appreciated that our programme covers not just trade skills but important topics like setting up limited companies and understanding VAT registration - areas that aren’t part of traditional apprenticeships. "Leo came home and was talking about VAT registration and setting up a limited company, and I said, yeah, that’s fantastic. He was telling me things I should have pushed for years ago."

Looking to the future

As we continue to expand our programmes and offer new opportunities, such as the upcoming Construction Management Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ), we're thrilled to be a part of our students' continued growth. Ian shared "We're looking forward to seeing our eldest son progress into the Construction Management HTQ".

At Bicester, we're more than just a place of learning; we're a community. We're honoured to be part of this family's journey and look forward to supporting them, and all our students, as they build bright futures in their chosen trades.

If you're considering an apprenticeship or know someone who might benefit from our supportive, hands-on approach, we encourage you to explore what Bicester Construction Skills Centre has to offer. We're here to help you every step of the way.

Did You Know?

Our Apprenticeship Achievement rates were placed SECOND in the whole of England for 2023/24*, scoring:

• 17 % points above the national average for all ages
• 26 % points above the national average for 16-18 year olds

What’s more, Ofsted rated our Apprenticeships "OUTSTANDING” in May 2024, saying that our apprentices:

• rapidly acquire new knowledge, skills, and behaviours that employers value highly
• produce work to a high standard, often achieving distinction grades.

Through our strong connections with employers across Oxfordshire, we are proud to offer a wide variety of apprenticeships, which we partner with the support and guidance of our brilliant Apprenticeship Team, who are there to support you on every step of your apprenticeship journey.

See our full range of apprenticeships and current vacancies on offer here.

Have any questions? Call our friendly apprenticeship team on 01235 216216.

*compared to all General FE Colleges including Tertiary Category in the 2022/23 Academic Year