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Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week

We take immense pride in our Apprentices, who bring fresh perspectives, dedication, and enthusiasm to our eclectic teams at Compco Fire Systems. They are also the perfect group to answer our most Frequently Asked Questions!


The Value Of Apprenticeships Apprenticeships offer a unique blend of hands-on experience and academic learning, equipping individuals with the skills needed for a successful career. They provide opportunities for career growth, skill development, and real-world problem-solving, benefiting both Apprentices and Employers alike.

Q: How Is The Balance Between Work & Study? Zac Watkins: There is a good balance between work and study, we have a set time in the morning to complete our college work along with monthly visits to the college itself. The two hours allocated at the start of every morning allows me to ease myself into the day and be ready to complete my work tasks for the rest of the day. Maddie-Mae Smith: The balance between work and study is good. I am allocated eight hours each week to complete college tasks and work on my project, presentation, and showcase portfolio. This time allocation allows me to complete my work up to a high standard.


Q: How Is Your Learning Supported By Your Employer & Training Provider?

Noah Jenkins: My training provider is excellent at offering telephone, email, and face to face support, my mentors always have time to give and support to offer.


Owen Baugh: My learning is supported by my employee through monthly catch-ups and meeting. We are also provided with meetings as a group to discuss our college work. Our training provider also supports us by coming into our workplace every three months or so, as well as offering feedback and support when emailing about college work.


Q: How Does On-The-Job Experience Compare To Classroom Learning?

Archie James: On the job experience is so much more personal and independent, I can use my own initiative to contribute or complete tasks. In college, I find the tasks are also related to the real work environment and are created with the aim of developing useful life skills.


Zac Watkins: Through on the job experience, I am exposed to more diverse and challenging situations and can learn how to deal with these. The things I learn in the classroom can then be put into practice, helping me to develop my skills further. It gives you a good mix of knowledge, and how to put that into practice.


Q: Have You Had Opportunities To Work on Real Projects?

Noah Jenkins: During my time, I have been trusted with multiple responsibilities including project managing remedial works, estimating projects and quoting works to clients. These skills have been crucial in developing client relationships and boosting my confidence in liaising with experienced team members and handling important accounts.


Archie James: I have been given opportunities to work on real projects in multiple departments which has helped me to understand the process of how the business run in different areas.


(Left To Right) Our NVQ Co-Ordinator, Lucie Stevens, And Our Apprentices, Maddie-Mae Smith, Archie James, Owen Baugh, Noah Jenkins, Zac Watkins
(Left To Right) Our NVQ Co-Ordinator, Lucie Stevens, And Our Apprentices, Maddie-Mae Smith, Archie James, Owen Baugh, Noah Jenkins, Zac Watkins

Our Investment At Compco Fire Systems, we believe that investing in Apprenticeships strengthens our workforce and fosters a culture of continuous learning.


By mentoring and supporting Apprentices, we help build the next generation of skilled professionals, ensuring the long-term success of our industry.


Q: What Are The Most Valuable Skills You've Developed?

Noah Jenkins: My people skills are the most valuable. In and out of work, I feel so much more confident talking to new people, asking for help and overall being more personable. When I first started, I was always worried about how I came across but that's definitely changed now.


Maddie-Mae Smith: With the opportunity of becoming more involved with projects and speaking to clients on a regular basis, I have strengthened my communication skills. The Apprenticeship has also shown me the importance of attention to detail, ensuring that all information is provided, whether this is included in emails, orders or important documents.


Unlocking Your Potential

Every Apprenticeship is a relationship between an individual, an employer, and a training provider. Whether you're just starting your career or looking to upskill, our Apprenticeships provide the guidance, resources, and hands-on experience needed to succeed.

Q: What's Your One Piece Of Advice For Someone Considering An Apprenticeship?

Owen Baugh: If you have the chance to do an Apprenticeship, take that opportunity with both hands.


Archie James: See it as an opportunity to kickstart your career and give yourself a foot into the door of the real world. Apprenticeships can lead to great career opportunities and a higher experience level.


Noah Jenkins: The 12/18 months you spend on an Apprenticeship is the biggest chance you will ever have to learn and develop your skills before beginning full-time employment.

Q: What Do You Wish You Knew Before Starting An Apprenticeship?

Zac Watkins: That it's okay if you don't know everything. Being an Apprentice means you are constantly learning so you don't need to put so much pressure on yourself.

Maddie-Mae Smith: That the skills I would learn would not only have a positive impact in the workplace but in my personal life as well. I started my Apprenticeship at 16 years old, right after finishing high school. From then to now, I can see a massive difference in myself, this difference is because of my Apprenticeship.


(Left To Right) Zac Watkins, Maddie-Mae Smith, Owen Baugh, Archie James, Noah Jenkins


At Compco Fire Systems you will benefit from personalised guidance from experienced professionals all whilst working towards a Nationally Recognised Qualification. Learning to manage projects from inception to completion using industry-standard tools and techniques, we provide exceptional entry and progression pathways into the Fire Sprinkler Industry. ​


Over the past five years we have employed twenty two individuals and 40% of our senior team have been through an Apprenticeship programme with Compco Fire Systems.


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