In celebration of National Apprenticeship Week 2025, we’re shining a light on the essential role that our apprentices play within the construction industry. As one of the most evolving sectors, construction offers a wealth of opportunities for those eager to learn and build a lasting career. Apprenticeships within construction not only provide practical, hands-on experience but also equip individuals with the skills necessary to thrive in an ever-changing landscape.

Through ‘in-the-field’ experience on major commercial projects across the country, our apprentices at Walter Thompson have the opportunity to learn specialised trades such as bricklaying, joinery, and quantity surveying. By developing technical knowledge and honing craft skills, apprentices are equipped to drive innovation and ensure continued personal growth within the sector.

We have been visiting our current apprentices on site to offer a glimpse into what has inspired them to choose their path and how their journeys have unfolded so far.

Callum McGillivary: 1st Year Bricklayer

What inspired you to start a construction apprenticeship?

‘I’ve always wanted to be a brickie. Nothing else has crossed my mind, of course when you’re younger you want to be a footballer or something but, in reality, I’ve always been determined and committed to being a brickie.’

Why did you choose to do an Apprenticeship with Walter Thompson?‘They’re the best about. Best company with the best lads.’

What’s been your favourite part of your Apprenticeship so far?

‘Probably my on-site work. Setting out, laying masonry, and assisting with the progress of the construction. I like the split between my college days and my site work.’

What’s one area of construction you’d like to specialise in?

‘I want to progress through my Apprenticeship and become fully qualified and compliant in all aspects of masonry.’

Thai Garrett-Taylor: 3rd Year Bricklayer

What inspired you to start a construction apprenticeship?

‘My dad is a bricklayer, he enjoys it, and I’d always thought it looked fun, so it only felt natural to look to apply for a construction apprenticeship.’

Why did you choose to do an Apprenticeship with Walter Thompson?

‘I initially started my apprenticeship with the firm’s sister company Tom Willoughby. Tom Willoughby has a strong focus on planned maintenance works; however, I wanted to learn about bricklaying so moved across to Walter Thompson which could offer more bricklaying experience.’

What’s been your favourite part of your Apprenticeship so far?

‘The people that I have met, and I really enjoyed working on a care home located in Bishop Auckland.’

What’s one area of construction you’d like to specialise in?

‘Bricklaying.’

Oscar Cullen: 2nd Year Joiner

What inspired you to start a construction apprenticeship?

‘I enjoy being more hands on.’

Why did you choose to do an Apprenticeship with Walter Thompson?

‘Local to me which helps.’

What’s been your favourite part of your Apprenticeship so far?

‘I like the social aspect of work, being with a team and meeting new people.’

What’s one area of construction you’d like to specialise in?

‘I’d like to try out bricklaying.’

Max Young: 2nd Year Bricklayer

What inspired you to start a construction apprenticeship?

‘I like being outside and wanted to pursue a career that was physical rather than sedentary and office based.’

Why did you choose to do an Apprenticeship with Walter Thompson?

‘I chose to do an Apprenticeship with Walter Thompson as I feel they are the best construction company in Northallerton.’

What’s been your favourite part of your Apprenticeship so far?

‘Meeting new people and learning on the job.’

What’s one area of construction you’d like to specialise in?

‘Bricklaying.’

Lennon Harland:1st Year Bricklayer

What inspired you to start a construction apprenticeship?

‘I was interested in the construction industry as I knew other people who had gained an apprenticeship, and had said it was a great long term career choice.’

Why did you choose to do an Apprenticeship with Walter Thompson?

‘I had friends that were already doing the construction apprenticeship at Walter Thompson, they all spoke positively about their experiences, which gave me the confidence to choose Walter Thompson for my apprenticeship.’

What’s been your favourite part of your Apprenticeship so far?

‘Meeting new people and learning new skills.’

What’s one area of construction you’d like to specialise in?

‘Bricklaying.’

James Taylor: 3rd Year Bricklayer

What inspired you to start a construction apprenticeship?

‘I wanted to work with my hands as I didn’t want to sit behind a desk all day.’

Why did you choose to do an Apprenticeship with Walter Thompson?

‘Learning on the job.’

What’s been your favourite part of your Apprenticeship so far?

‘Meeting new people and learning from all the different trades on site’

What’s one area of construction you’d like to specialise in?

‘Skilful detailing when it comes to brickwork and stonework.’

Ben Cleminson: 3rd Year Bricklayer

What inspired you to start a construction apprenticeship?

‘I knew I wouldn’t enjoy college and wanted to follow in my dad’s footsteps in bricklaying.’

Why did you choose to do an Apprenticeship with Walter Thompson?

‘They’re a good fit for me as they’re local and employ my dad.’

What’s been your favourite part of your Apprenticeship so far?

‘I’ve enjoyed bricklaying in general.’

What’s one area of construction you’d like to specialise in?

‘Bricklaying is what I’m focused on.’