Kai Murdoch

Kai chose an apprenticeship in Carpentry because he wanted to do something practical that would be different every day. It also means he can work outdoors. He’s currently studying Level 2 Carpentry and works on a housing development. Read how his apprenticeship has also helped him learn soft skills and grown his confidence, too.

Kai’s Story

“After school, at first, I didn’t know what I wanted to do. I like being outdoors, doing different things, and doing practical-based work. I started carpentry at college and did Level 1 and Level 2 qualifications, which gave me a basic understanding. The Level 2 qualification gives you the full qualification to go onsite.

I’d started looking for placements online, and my Carpentry Apprentice job with Taylor Wimpey came about from that. I was offered the apprenticeship through college. MK College has job vacancies for apprentices on their website, and tutors are supportive when you look for a placement.

I began my apprenticeship in September 2022, and I’m now not too far away from finishing Level 2. I remember my first year, that winter was very cold! Working outdoors is something you get used to over time.

My confidence was also a big obstacle for me. The apprenticeship has helped me improve my confidence, so if I’m asked to do a job, I’m confident to take it on and do it. Whereas before, I was unsure how to do it. I’m more willing to have a go.

Doing the apprenticeship has helped me learn how to communicate with different types of people from different backgrounds.

I’ve also enjoyed using skills from my apprenticeship outside work to help my family. My proudest moment so far has been helping my Nan and Grandad build a new fence last summer.

The teaching and support at MK College has been amazing. My tutor is the kind of guy you can go to if you need help with something.

Next, I plan to continue my Level 3 Carpentry Apprenticeship with Taylor Wimpey and MK College. Then, hopefully, a carpentry firm will take me on after that. The future looks promising!

Kai’s advice to anyone considering apprenticeships:

“The best advice I could give, which I have been given many times, is stick at it, keep at it. The money isn’t great, but you learn in a job, you’re secure. Stick at it and learn as much as you can.”