Your future starts here!

Why did you apply for an apprenticeship with Vico Homes?

After completing a two-year plumbing course at college, I knew I wanted to work in a similar trade. I spoke to a friend who was already completing a gas apprenticeship at Vico Homes and he told me it was a great company to work for and the apprenticeship team is supportive. I felt inspired to apply so visited the careers event held at Trident Park to find out more. I was pleased to be offered the role as Apprentice Gas Engineer, it has been everything I hope for and I really enjoy working here. 

Would you recommend an apprenticeship with Vico Homes? 

I’d recommend Vico Homes to anyone looking to do a trade apprenticeship. The support from the team is amazing and it really feels like everyone is invested in my training. Everyone is so encouraging and being part of the team gives a sense of belonging. I’ve even joined my manager at careers events to promote apprenticeship because I believe it’s the best place to work and learn.

What do you like to do at the weekend?

I enjoy socialising with my friends some I’ve made through my apprenticeship. I like to play golf as this keeps me fit and is another chance to catch up with friends.

Why did you apply for an apprenticeship with Vico Homes? 

A family member used to work in the Cash Wise team she told me to have a look at the apprenticeships here knowing how much support and opportunity they offer. 

What have you learnt so far? 

Since starting my apprenticeship, I've built my knowledge of the different services we provide to customers. I've learnt how to work both as part of a team and independently to achieve great results while also focusing on my own development and becoming more confident. 

What is your favourite song? 

Bonfire Heart - James Blunt 

Why did you apply for an apprenticeship with Vico Homes?

After completing a bricklaying course at college, I wanted to enhance my skills in the workplace and thought an apprenticeship would be the ideal opportunity for me. I spoke to one of the Community Employment Advisors and they gave me advice on the application process. I took their advice by researching the company and the behaviours that are scored in the interview process. I was thrilled when I was offered the position.

Would you recommend an apprenticeship with Vico Homes?

I would recommend an apprenticeship with Vico Homes because of their supportive mentors, site team and the learning and development team. I pushed myself out of my comfort zone when going on the Outward Bound trip, which was a great experience that I will never forget. It helped me enhance my ability to work well in a team.

What do you like to do at the weekend?

On a weekend, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, but I also enjoy giving back to my local community. I teach children kickboxing and I like being part of a team that helps to instil confidence in children through sport.

What have you learnt so far?

So far, I’ve been inducted into the apprenticeship team and I have a good understanding of health and safety to keep myself and others safe while working. I currently work in the electrical install team and have learnt to install cables in an overhead space. I enjoy working with my mentor who explains why things need to be carried out in a certain way and how to do it. As I progress, I am keen to learn and develop my skills and knowledge.

Would you recommend an apprenticeship with Vico Homes?

I would recommend an apprenticeship at Vico Homes as they are supportive of their apprentices and there are good opportunities available in the apprenticeship and beyond. I’ve had the chance to meet people who started as an apprentice, who have been supported from Vico Homes and developed, to become site managers and team leaders, and I think it is great to know that those opportunities are available. 

It’s also great that there’s a dedicated team to support apprentices, and it was a nice bonus to be provided with the tools and uniform that I needed.

What do you like to do at the weekend?

On a weekend, I play rugby for a professional local club and it’s great that I can do this alongside my apprenticeship. I enjoy watching rugby and supporting my friends who play in a different team. I think that supporting and being in a team is a great way to develop confidence and skills beyond the working environment.

Why did you apply for an apprenticeship with Vico Homes?

I was interested in a trade apprenticeship after I did Construction Level 2 in Year 11 at school and it was my favourite lesson. I went to Vico Homes’ open evening to see what was on offer and I spoke to many qualified colleagues and apprentices who confirmed I was making the right decision. I decided to apply for a roofing apprenticeship, spoke to my career advisor and my family about my application, and was lucky enough to secure this apprenticeship after a successful interview.

What have you learnt so far?

Although I have only just started my apprenticeship, I’ve already learnt how to lay tiles and ridge caps with help and encouragement from my mentor, Jacob. I am eager to learn and I look forward to learning more on my apprenticeship journey as well as understanding the theory side of the job from college.

Would you recommend an apprenticeship with Vico Homes?

Yes because they have a well thought out training plan, great mentors and everyone is friendly and encouraging. I had a week-long induction where I met the other apprentices, was given my workwear and tools and trained to be ready for the world of work.  

Why did you apply for an apprenticeship with Vico Homes?

I decided to apply after hearing great things from my dad and brother, who both work here and completed the apprenticeship programme themselves. I’m still early in my journey, but I’ve already learnt so much thanks to the support of my mentors and the people around me. Every day brings something new to learn and I’m really enjoying the experience.

Would you recommend an apprenticeship with Vico Homes?

Yes, you’ll learn a lot and gain the right qualifications for your trade. From day one, you’re given your own tools and PPE. You always have the help of a supportive mentor so if you’re ever stuck there’s plenty of help available to make sure you feel confident and supported to do the job.

What do you like to do at the weekend?

I enjoy going to the gym and spending time with friends which keeps me busy. It’s important to have any sort of hobby as it keeps you stress free.

Why did you apply for an apprenticeship with Vico Homes?

I applied because of Vico Homes’ great reputation for looking after both their colleagues and customers. They take real pride in their homes and want their customers to feel comfortable in them. As an apprentice there’s so much to learn and it’s exciting knowing there are great opportunities for career progression too.

What have you learnt so far?

So far, I’ve learnt a lot of plumbing skills and improved my communication by explaining the work we’ve done to customers and making sure they’re happy before we leave their homes. All the mentors are really welcoming and supportive to make sure you’re doing your best.

What do you like to do at the weekend?

I play football for a local team. It’s a great environment and brings me pride playing for a local club.

I joined Vico Homes in September 2019 as an Office Apprentice working within the Gas team. Choosing to go down the apprenticeship route after leaving college was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It gives you the opportunity to grow and adapt to a new environment whilst also being paid to learn, which opens even more possibilities. I was faced with many new challenges throughout my apprenticeship, but I was always fully supported by my mentor and other colleagues who were all extremely helpful and friendly. 

After completing my apprenticeship in 2020 I secured a permanent position as a Support Officer. This was the start of my development as after two years of doing this role, I was asked to cover a Support Team Supervisor role in May 2022 which was another amazing opportunity to gain experience and progress within the organisation. I was  successful in my interview for this role and was promoted to Support Team Supervisor role. I’m so grateful for the opportunities and I’m excited to see what the future holds for me. None of this would have been possible without me making the decision to take the apprenticeship, so take the leap you - won’t regret it! 

I joined in September 2020, an apprenticeship was a great way to extend my learning after Sixth Form, whilst also creating an opportunity to gain work experience with our Community Safety Team. Starting as an Office Apprentice during the Covid pandemic had its challenges, but Vico Homes didn’t let that effect my learning.

During my time with the Community Safety Team, my knowledge of anti-social behaviour improved, my confidence grew when communicating with our customers and colleagues made me quickly feel like a valued team member.

At the end of my apprenticeship, I joined our Estate Management Team to grow my knowledge of other areas within the business.  I’m now an Estate Officer, overseeing the Wakefield high rises and Portobello Estate, working alongside numerous other teams and partner agencies. I visit customers on a daily basis, making a difference in our communities and completing further qualifications, has all been made possible with an apprenticeship at Vico Homes.

I’m grateful for the opportunities Vico Homes continue to offer and would recommend others taking a similar path as their first step into the working world!