Charlie Cheriton has swapped the study of human anatomy for the internal workings of the domestic plumbing system.
The 18-year-old changed course from sports science to plumbing and has now started an apprenticeship with Bellway.
Charlie, who lives in Kent, joined Bellway Thames Gateway in September and is based at its Eastside Quarter development in Bexleyheath.
He said: “After leaving school, I did a year of sport and exercise science at college but realised it was just not for me. My Uncle Steve is a plumber and I always really enjoyed helping him out in the school holidays, so I knew that was the way forward for me.
“I did a year’s plumbing course at London South East Colleges and really took to it. When the course finished, I applied to Bellway and was lucky enough to secure a place on a three-year apprenticeship, which, if I finish successfully, will see me become a Level 3 qualified plumber.”
Charlie is based at Eastside Quarter four days a week and one day a week at college.
“It is the perfect mix for me,” said Charlie. “I love learning on the job and working with the team at Eastside Quarter but also find the theory side of things fascinating when I am at college. At the moment, I am learning about all things bathroom and how to plumb in a toilet, sinks, baths and showers.
“Some of my friends have gone to university but quite a few have turned to the trades for a career like me. An apprenticeship suits me because I want to be out there working, learning and earning a wage while I am doing it. I did not fancy the idea of three years at university then possibly finishing with a degree and a big debt and no job to go to.
“Bellway is a great company to work for because I am getting all the help and support I need to achieve my aim, which is to be Level 3 qualified.”
Glen Currie, Project Manager at Eastside Quarter, said: “Charlie is one of the most dedicated and enthusiastic employees I have ever met. His hard-working and can-do attitude are setting a great example to his colleagues.
“Charlie has only been with us for a matter of weeks but it is already abundantly clear that he is a fast learner and has a very bright future ahead of him. He is a shining example of the kind of young talent that we want to attract to Bellway, where we can offer a dynamic career in the housebuilding industry.”
