Next Generation of Tradespeople Praise Supportive Developers

Apprentices working at Pye Homes have praised the developers’ support network as part of National Apprentice Week (7th-13th February).

We currently have seven apprentices learning different trades under our watch including the next generation of plumbers, bricklayers and carpenters.

Max James, is in the process of completing his level two carpentry course before embarking on level three, enabling him to become a qualified carpenter.

“The team here help me enormously and offer a lot of support, they really have taught me so much,” he said.

“My people skills are also improving; I have fun at work and have developed some great friendships whilst I have been here.”

We have been building houses in Oxfordshire for almost 100 years and are currently working on a series of new developments locally; including Park View in Woodstock, Church Farm in Radley and Temple Gate in Marcham.

“I think because we enjoy what we are doing, we learn a lot more and it makes us want to continue,” he added.

His enthusiasm is shared by bricklaying apprentice, Jack Rampton, who added:

“I like being on site and learning new skills every day, I get lots of opportunities and independence to improve but I can still ask anyone for help if I need it.”

All seven apprentices plan to continue their careers in construction once their apprenticeships have ended.

Ewan Jenkins, another apprentice bricklayer, said:

“Once my apprenticeship is complete, I want to become a fully qualified tradesman and that will possibly set up a career for the rest of my life.”

We are part of the Blenheim group of companies, who support the wider business with 10 goals, of which the apprenticeship scheme is an integral part. The scheme aims to train 100 apprentices within a decade, and was launched at the end of 2017.

We strive to ensure that our workplace is a happy and rewarding environment for everyone and is committed to providing an environment for its employees to develop their skills.

By the end of last year, and despite the pandemic, 50 apprentices had already either completed, or are currently in the process of completing their courses.

Property is an integral part of Blenheim’s 10-year goals which includes tripling the Estate’s contribution to the local economy, delivering 300 truly affordable homes for local families and creating a £45m endowment fund to ensure the long-term future of the World Heritage Site.