News Beat
Bishop Auckland College apprentices join C&A Maintenance
Apprenticeships with Crook-based C&A Construction & Maintenance are giving young people hands-on experience in the trade, backed by training through the college.
The partnership, now in its fourth year, has helped develop a steady pipeline of skilled workers, with three new apprentices joining the company.
Chris Anderson, director at C&A Construction & Maintenance, said: “Every year we bring apprentices in because we want to mould them the C&A way.
“It is so rewarding to see them shine.
“We already have success stories like Matthew Hawkey, who went through his joinery apprenticeship with the college and is now out on his own handling large, planned works.”
Ben Jobling, Faith Brooks, and Chris Cooper are the latest recruits.
They are working across the company’s commercial divisions, which cover both reactive and planned maintenance.
Michael Purvis, also a director at the firm, said: “The real pleasure in taking on apprentices is seeing the growth as a person, like Matthew, and the others, grow up around us and that really does help create the family culture allowing us to compete at a national level.”
Each apprentice is undertaking a different specialism, supported by college-based learning.
Ben Jobling, 17, from Bishop Auckland, is working towards a Level 2 apprenticeship in site carpentry and joinery.
He is currently working on student accommodation projects for Durham University.
Mr Jobling said: “It’s been great to learn different techniques.
“I’ve been fitting windows, architraves, and stud walls, but I’ve also learned how to lay pavement slabs.
“Having different skills is vital for when I qualify.
“The company is professional and laid back, which is a great environment to learn in, and the College has helped me learn other things that I am yet to do on site.
“You get to talk to other students and learn from them too.”
Faith Brooks, 19, originally studied childcare but has switched to a Level 3 business administration apprenticeship.
She now manages the company’s busy help desk.
Ms Brooks said: “I’m so glad I made the switch. I log jobs, handle client calls, and deal with engineer queries.
“It was challenging at first, but I’ve had so much help. I even know how to replace a tap now thanks to what I’ve learned from the team.
“The support from the college team is always there whenever I need it.”
Chris Cooper, 26, from Crook, has started a Level 2 property maintenance apprenticeship following a successful year with the company.
He said: “I have been on the apprenticeship since June and enjoy how varied the role is, working at different sites on different jobs.
“I have worked for C&A Maintenance for around 18 months and been on my apprenticeship since June.
“I am looking forward to successfully completing my apprenticeship next year and continuing developing in my role.”
The scheme has been praised by college staff for its real-world impact on the community.
Kate Stockton, relationship manager at Bishop Auckland College, said: “It’s fantastic to see a local Crook-based company like C&A Maintenance investing in three different areas of apprenticeships—property maintenance, joinery, and business administration.
“Even better is seeing each apprentice thriving.
“I’m incredibly proud that Chris, Ben, and Faith are not only developing their skills but also making a real difference within the local community.”
