Ewloe-based Anwyl apprentices reflect on new career journeys

 

As National Apprenticeship Week gets underway, two trainees at Ewloe-based Anwyl are sharing how their apprenticeships are shaping their careers and offering advice to others considering the same path.

Ruby Jones, 20, from Mold, and Alex Davies, 22, from Colwyn Bay, have taken different routes—one in human resources and the other in site management—but both are thriving while earning and learning through Anwyl’s apprenticeship programmes.

Ruby joined Anwyl as a human resources apprentice in January 2024 after deferring her place at the University of York, where she had been accepted to study psychology.

She wanted to work and continue her education simultaneously, and the apprenticeship provided the perfect opportunity.

“It can be quite difficult getting into HR, as usually you either need certain qualifications or a minimum of two years’ experience,” Ruby explained. “I knew I still wanted to continue my education, but I wanted to work and earn, so the apprenticeship Anwyl had to offer was perfect.”

Now an HR coordinator, Ruby has gained hands-on experience in everything from onboarding new starters to conducting probationary reviews.

She has also completed her level three Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) qualification and trained as a mental health first aider.

“You will never have the same day in HR – but that’s what I enjoy most about it,” she said. “Anwyl has a modern approach to people practice, with its focus on improving employee wellbeing and creating an inclusive space for everyone.”

Alex Davies, a former competitive skier, is pursuing an NVQ level three in site management while working on Anwyl’s Parc Bodafon development in Llandudno.

Having competed for the Welsh Ski Squad across Europe, he decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and pursue a career in construction.

“I’m an outdoors person, so when I was choosing my career path, I considered how I could combine physical work outdoors with an academic challenge,” Alex said. “The apprenticeship appealed to me because of the variety and routine it offers. There’s never a dull moment.”

Alex starts each day with site rounds, liaising with contractors and suppliers, and managing on-site activities. His advice to other apprentices is to seek support and persevere.

“It’s a lot of work and a lot to juggle, but my advice is to ask for help and persevere. Things get easier as you find your feet, and there’s always someone around for support.”

Both Ruby and Alex believe apprenticeships are the ideal way to start a career while gaining invaluable workplace experience.

“Go for it,” Ruby advised. “It’s the perfect mix of education and hands-on experience. In the future, I’d like to complete CIPD Level 5 and become an HR manager.”

For Alex, working in homebuilding offers endless opportunities.

“There are so many different job options and lifestyles available,” he said. “It’s just about finding the right one for you. I want to work my way up to site manager.”

Anwyl, a family-run business now in its 95th year, continues to invest in apprenticeships and career development opportunities. For more information, visit careers.anwyl.co.uk.