If you have a question about an apprenticeship, click here

How do you turn a qualification into a long-term career, and what happens after you complete your training?

In Episode 10 of the WorkWise Apprenticeship Podcast, Morgan speaks to Cameron Croft about his journey into carpentry, the importance of gaining practical experience, and how a structured training programme is helping him take the next step in his career.

Cameron joined the business in August 2025 as a Carpenter Improver after successfully completing his NVQ Level 2 in Carpentry. The Improver role provides an important bridge between qualification and becoming a fully established tradesperson, allowing individuals to continue developing their skills while gaining valuable real-world experience on-site.

As part of a 12-month training programme, Cameron is working alongside experienced tradespeople who are helping him build confidence, refine his techniques and develop the practical knowledge needed to succeed in the industry.

The programme is designed to gradually increase responsibility as skills and experience grow. Through mentorship, hands-on learning and exposure to a variety of projects, Cameron is developing the expertise needed to work independently and take on more complex tasks.

Throughout the episode, Cameron discusses his decision to pursue a career in carpentry, what he learned while completing his qualification, and how the transition from training into full-time employment has helped him continue to grow professionally.

He also shares insights into the importance of learning from experienced colleagues, the value of practical experience, and what a typical day looks like working on the Portsmouth City Council contract.

Upon successfully completing the programme, Cameron will progress into a full trade role, taking on greater independence and responsibility as he continues to build his career within the construction industry.

For anyone considering a career in carpentry or wondering what opportunities exist after gaining a qualification, Cameron's story highlights how learning doesn't stop once you achieve a certificate. Continued development, mentorship and on-the-job experience all play an important role in becoming a skilled tradesperson.

Listen now to hear how Cameron is building on his qualifications, developing his confidence and taking the next steps towards a successful career in carpentry.

If you have any questions about the podcast, apprenticeships or Mountjoy please send us a message. 

If you have a question about an apprenticeship, click here

Sometimes the career you end up loving isn't the one you originally planned.

In Episode 9 of the WorkWise Apprenticeship Podcast, Angel talks to Brian Muzuva, a Trainee Quantity Surveyor with Mountjoy, about how a T-Level industry placement helped him discover a career in construction and ultimately led to a permanent role.

Brian's interest in construction actually stretches back to his time at school in Zimbabwe, where he studied the basics of building and construction. After moving to the UK, however, he initially planned to study A-Levels and pursue a career in computers and technology.

That changed when a lecturer suggested he consider a T-Level in Design, Planning and Surveying for Construction.

As part of the course, Brian needed to complete an industry placement. Like many young people taking their first steps into the workplace, not every application was successful. But Mountjoy gave Brian the opportunity to gain experience with its Building Projects team.

It proved to be a turning point.

During his placement, Brian developed an interest in estimating and quantity surveying, learning more about how construction projects are planned, costed and delivered. After completing further work experience, he secured a permanent position and is now developing his career as a Trainee Quantity Surveyor.

Learning in the real world

Brian tells Angel that one of the biggest benefits of his role has been how much he's been able to learn in a relatively short space of time.

Working alongside experienced colleagues has allowed him to ask questions, tackle challenges and build his confidence. He also explains some of the skills young people need if they're considering a similar career, including attention to detail, communication, organisation and problem solving.

Quantity surveying can involve handling drawings, quotations, subcontractor orders and changing information across a project. And because every construction project is different, Brian explains why being able to think on your feet and solve problems is such an important part of the job.

Opening doors for the future

Brian's advice for anyone considering an apprenticeship is simple: go for it.

For him, one of the biggest advantages is being able to combine study with genuine workplace experience. Instead of only learning something in a classroom, you're able to apply that knowledge to real projects while developing practical skills employers value.

Brian's journey is also a reminder that you don't necessarily need your entire career mapped out when you leave school or college. A lecturer's suggestion, a T-Level and an industry placement introduced him to a career he hadn't originally planned to pursue.

By being willing to learn, work hard and take opportunities when they appeared, that first placement eventually opened the door to his career with Mountjoy.

🎧 Episode 9 of the WorkWise Apprenticeship Podcast, featuring Brian Muzuva talking to Angel, is available wherever you listen to podcasts.

Catch up with every episode at expressfm.com/workwise.

If you have any questions about the podcast, apprenticeships or Mountjoy please send us a message. 

If you have a question about an apprenticeship, click here

What happens after you complete an apprenticeship? How do you decide which career path is right for you?

In Episode 8 of the WorkWise Apprenticeship Podcast, Callum speaks to Joe Harvey about his apprenticeship journey, the skills he developed along the way, and why he chose to specialise in plumbing.

Joe began his career in September 2023 as a Level 2 Property Maintenance Apprentice while studying at City of Portsmouth College. During the two-year programme, he spent one day each week at college while gaining valuable hands-on experience in the workplace.

One of the biggest benefits of the Property Maintenance Apprenticeship is the opportunity to experience a variety of trades. Throughout his training, Joe developed practical skills in plumbing, carpentry, plastering, electrical work, painting and decorating, tiling, flooring, general maintenance, temporary repairs and customer service.

This broad experience allowed him to gain a better understanding of the industry and discover which trade suited his interests and strengths.

After successfully completing his apprenticeship, Joe decided to focus on plumbing and has now progressed into the role of Plumbing Improver. Since May 2026, he has been working independently, putting into practice the skills and knowledge he developed during his apprenticeship while continuing to gain experience on the job.

Joe is currently awaiting his formal qualification certificate and will soon progress into a role as a fully qualified plumber, marking the next step in his career.

During the episode, Joe talks about what attracted him to an apprenticeship, the challenges and rewards of learning multiple trades, and how he made the decision to specialise in plumbing. He also shares insights into a typical working day and offers advice for young people who may be considering a similar career path.

For anyone interested in plumbing, property maintenance or the construction industry, Joe's story highlights how apprenticeships can provide a strong foundation, helping you explore different opportunities before choosing the route that suits you best.

Listen now to hear how Joe developed his skills, found his passion for plumbing, and is building a successful career through apprenticeship training.

If you have any questions about the podcast, apprenticeships or Mountjoy please send us a message. 

If you have a question about an apprenticeship, click here

What does a Quantity Surveyor do, and how can an apprenticeship help you build a career in the construction industry while earning a degree?

In Episode 7 of the WorkWise Apprenticeship Podcast, Leon speaks to Aidan Whitlock about his journey into quantity surveying, the opportunities that apprenticeships can offer, and why he believes they are a fantastic route into the industry.

Aidan began his career at Mountjoy in November 2022 as a Trainee Quantity Surveyor. In the role, he supported the commercial team with costing projects and gained valuable experience in the financial and contractual side of construction. This early experience helped him build a strong understanding of how projects are planned, managed and delivered.

As his knowledge and confidence grew, Aidan took the next step in his development. In September 2024, he became an Apprentice Quantity Surveyor and enrolled on a Level 6 Chartered Surveyor Degree Apprenticeship.

This six-year programme combines practical workplace experience with university-level study, allowing Aidan to work towards becoming a fully qualified Chartered Surveyor while continuing to earn and gain hands-on experience in the industry.

Throughout the episode, Aidan explains what quantity surveying involves, the skills required for the role, and how balancing work and study has helped him develop both professionally and personally. He also discusses the benefits of degree apprenticeships and how they provide an alternative route to higher education without following the traditional university pathway.

Away from his day-to-day role, Aidan has also played an important part in promoting apprenticeships to the next generation. For the past two years, he has visited local schools on behalf of Mountjoy, sharing his own experiences and helping young people understand the opportunities available through apprenticeship programmes.

In this conversation, Aidan offers honest advice for anyone considering a career in construction, explains what he enjoys most about quantity surveying, and reflects on the journey he has taken so far.

If you're interested in construction, business, finance, project management, or degree apprenticeships, this episode provides a fascinating insight into a career that plays a crucial role behind the scenes of every successful project.

Listen now to hear how Aidan is combining practical experience with higher education and building a career as a future Chartered Surveyor.

If you have any questions about the podcast, apprenticeships or Mountjoy please send us a message. 

If you have a question about an apprenticeship, click here

How do you go from delivering materials to training for a highly specialised engineering role?

In Episode 6 of the WorkWise Apprenticeship Podcast, Tim speaks to Josh Gascoigne about his journey into the construction and maintenance industry, the opportunities that can come from working hard, and what it's like to train in a specialist field.

Josh joined the business in August 2024 as a Materials Delivery Driver, helping to keep projects running smoothly by ensuring teams had the equipment and materials they needed. While this role gave him valuable experience and insight into the industry, Josh was keen to continue developing his skills and explore new opportunities.

His commitment and potential were recognised, leading to a promotion into the role of Door Entry, IRS and Auto Door Trainee. Josh is now undertaking an in-house traineeship with Mountjoy, following a structured training programme designed to develop both his technical knowledge and practical skills.

The traineeship is expected to take around two years and includes a variety of specialist training courses. During this time, Josh is learning how to install, maintain and repair systems that many people rely on every day, including door entry systems, integrated reception systems (IRS) and automatic doors.

In this episode, Josh talks about making the transition from driving to engineering, the challenges of learning a specialist trade, and the support available throughout his training. He also shares what a typical day looks like, the skills he is developing, and what excites him most about his future career.

Once he successfully completes the traineeship, Josh will qualify as a Door Entry, IRS and Auto Door Engineer, opening the door to a rewarding and highly skilled career.

If you're interested in technical careers, engineering, or learning through practical experience, Josh's story shows that there are many different routes into specialist industries and that career progression can come from opportunities you may not have initially expected.

Listen now to hear how Josh is building a future in engineering and discovering where his training could take him.

If you have any questions about the podcast, apprenticeships or Mountjoy please send us a message. 

If you have a question about an apprenticeship, click here

What does it take to progress from answering calls to leading teams and overseeing compliance?

In Episode 5 of the WorkWise Apprenticeship Podcast, Darcy speaks to Bradley Wilson about his career journey, the importance of leadership development, and how an apprenticeship helped him take the next step in his career.

Bradley joined the organisation in January 2022 as a Call Handler. Through hard work, strong communication skills and a proactive attitude, he quickly made an impact and became known for delivering consistently high standards in his role.

His dedication was recognised in April 2023 when he was promoted to Team Leader. This new position allowed him to develop his leadership abilities, support colleagues and gain valuable experience managing people and processes.

Wanting to strengthen his knowledge even further, Bradley enrolled on the Team Leader/Supervisor Level 3 apprenticeship in August 2024. The apprenticeship gave him the opportunity to combine practical leadership experience with formal training in management and supervision.

While completing his apprenticeship, Bradley continued to excel in his role and was promoted again in July 2025 to Office Compliance Supervisor. He has since completed his apprenticeship and achieved a Distinction, reflecting the effort and commitment he invested throughout the programme.

During the episode, Bradley discusses how the apprenticeship supported his development, the skills he gained through leadership training, and how balancing work with study helped prepare him for greater responsibility. He also shares advice for anyone considering a leadership apprenticeship and explains why continuous learning remains important, even after securing a promotion.

For listeners interested in management, leadership or career progression, Bradley's story demonstrates how apprenticeships are not only a route into employment but can also help existing employees develop new skills, gain qualifications and advance their careers.

Listen now to hear how Bradley combined practical experience with professional training to achieve a Distinction and continue building a successful leadership career.

If you have any questions about the podcast, apprenticeships or Mountjoy please send us a message. 

If you have a question about an apprenticeship, click here

What happens when you discover a new career path and decide to take the leap?

In Episode 4 of the WorkWise Apprenticeship Podcast, Hannah speaks to Josh Williams about his journey from working in an office-based operational role to training as an electrical apprentice.

Josh began his career in February 2022 as a Call Handler, where he quickly established himself as a reliable and capable member of the team. Just six months later, he was promoted to Deputy Resource Controller, taking on greater responsibility and helping to coordinate day-to-day operations.

While Josh was progressing in his role, he realised he wanted to pursue a hands-on trade career. In November 2023, he made the decision to move into an Electrical Apprentice position, beginning a new chapter in his professional journey.

Josh is currently working towards completing his apprenticeship, which is due to finish in November 2026. Once qualified, he will progress into a role as a fully qualified electrician.

In this episode, Josh discusses what motivated him to change career direction, the challenges and rewards of starting an apprenticeship, and how his previous experience has helped him in his current role. He also shares insights into the day-to-day life of an electrical apprentice and offers advice to anyone considering a similar path.

For anyone wondering whether it's too late to change direction, or whether an apprenticeship could be the right route into a skilled trade, Josh's story demonstrates that career journeys don't always follow a straight line.

Listen now to hear how Josh turned a career change into a new opportunity and why an apprenticeship could help you build the future you're looking for.

If you have any questions about the podcast, apprenticeships or Mountjoy please send us a message. 

If you have a question about an apprenticeship, click here

What is it really like to start an apprenticeship, learn multiple trades, and then specialise in a career you enjoy?

In Episode 3 of the WorkWise Apprenticeship Podcast, student interviewer Oscar sits down with Leon Chappell to discuss his journey from apprentice to Carpentry Improver and the skills he has developed along the way.

Leon began his career in September 2023 as a Level 2 Property Maintenance Apprentice while studying at City of Portsmouth College. During his two-year apprenticeship, he spent one day each week at college while gaining hands-on experience in the workplace.

One of the biggest advantages of Leon's apprenticeship was the variety of skills he was able to learn. His training covered plumbing, carpentry, plastering, electrical work, painting and decorating, tiling, flooring, general maintenance, temporary repairs and customer service. This gave him a broad understanding of the construction industry and helped him discover which trade interested him most.

After completing his apprenticeship, Leon decided to specialise in carpentry. Since May 2026, he has been working as a Carpentry Improver, taking on work independently and continuing to build his knowledge and experience on site. Once he receives his formal qualification certificate, he will move into a role as a fully qualified carpenter.

During the conversation, Leon shares what attracted him to an apprenticeship, what he learned during his training, and how gaining experience across different trades helped him make decisions about his future career. He also offers valuable advice for anyone considering an apprenticeship and explains why practical, hands-on learning suited him.

If you're interested in construction, property maintenance, carpentry, or simply want to hear from someone who has recently completed an apprenticeship, this episode provides an honest insight into the opportunities available and the pathways that can follow.

Listen now to hear Leon's story and discover where an apprenticeship could take you.

If you have any questions about the podcast, apprenticeships or Mountjoy please send us a message. 

If you have a question about an apprenticeship, click here

Welcome to the very first 'official' episode of the Workwise Apprenticeship Podcast.

In this episode, Darcy sits down with Harvey Clemson-Day to talk about his journey into apprenticeships, the opportunities that helped him get started, and what life is really like as a Property Maintenance Apprentice.

Harvey's story is a great example of how there isn't always one straight path into a career. Before beginning his apprenticeship, Harvey joined Mountjoy through the HTP Employability Scheme. The programme is designed to support young people aged 16 to 24 who are not currently in work, education or training, helping them gain valuable experience, confidence and skills while exploring future career options.

As part of the scheme, Harvey spent 36 weeks working within Mountjoy's PCC call handling team. During that time, he developed a strong understanding of customer service, communication and day-to-day business operations, becoming a valued member of the team and gaining experience that would help shape his future career choices.

After completing his placement, Harvey decided he wanted to pursue a career in the trades and took the next step by enrolling on a Level 2 Property Maintenance Apprenticeship. Since September 2025, he has been combining hands-on workplace experience with studies at City of Portsmouth College, developing the practical skills and knowledge needed to build a successful career in property maintenance.

During the conversation, Harvey talks openly about what attracted him to an apprenticeship, what he enjoys most about the role, the challenges he has faced along the way and the advice he would give to anyone considering a similar route.

One of the key themes throughout the episode is the value of learning while working. Harvey shares how gaining real-world experience alongside his studies has helped build both his confidence and his understanding of the industry.

Whether you're thinking about becoming an apprentice yourself, supporting a young person who is exploring their options, or simply interested in hearing first-hand experiences from people already on that journey, Harvey's story provides a genuine insight into the opportunities apprenticeships can offer.

If you have any questions about the podcast, apprenticeships or Mountjoy please send us a message. 

If you have a question about an apprenticeship, click here

Choosing your next step after school or college can feel like a daunting decision. Whether you're considering sixth form, university, an apprenticeship or heading straight into work, it isn't always easy to know which path is right for you.

That's exactly why the WorkWise Apprenticeship Podcast was created.

In this special introductory episode, we hear from the three organisations behind the project: Cheryl Buggy, Co-Founder and Chair of Express FM, Simon Ingram, Managing Director of Mountjoy, and David Lycett, Assistant Principal at City of Portsmouth College.

Together, they explain why they wanted to create a podcast that gives young people honest, practical advice from those already building successful careers through apprenticeships and vocational training.

WorkWise is a partnership between Express FM, Mountjoy and City of Portsmouth College, designed to help young people better understand the wide range of career opportunities available across Portsmouth and beyond. Throughout the series, students from City of Portsmouth College interview apprentices, employers and industry professionals, uncovering real stories about career journeys, workplace experiences and the skills employers are looking for.

Unlike many careers resources, the conversations are genuine and unscripted. The students asking the questions aren't professional broadcasters, and the apprentices sharing their experiences aren't media-trained. They're simply having honest conversations with the aim of helping the next generation make informed decisions about their future.

In this opening episode, Simon Ingram explains why Mountjoy is passionate about supporting apprenticeships and why learning through practical experience can be just as valuable as more traditional academic routes. He also discusses the importance of challenging outdated perceptions surrounding apprenticeships and encouraging more young people to consider vocational careers.

David Lycett talks about the role City of Portsmouth College has played in the project, giving students the opportunity to develop valuable communication, interviewing and employability skills while helping inspire future students through authentic conversations with local apprentices and employers.

You'll also hear from Cheryl Buggy, who explains why Express FM wanted to be involved and how local radio can play an important role in connecting education, businesses and the wider community. As a community radio station, Express FM is committed to supporting the people of Portsmouth, and WorkWise is another way of helping local young people discover exciting opportunities close to home.

This episode also introduces the journey taken by the student interviewers themselves. Before sitting down with guests, they received interview training from Express FM presenter Paul Marsh, building their confidence and learning the skills needed to produce a professional podcast series. For many of the students, it was their first experience behind a microphone, making their conversations all the more authentic and relatable.

Whether you're a student thinking about your future, a parent looking to understand the options available, or an employer interested in developing the next generation of talent, Episode 1 provides the perfect introduction to the WorkWise Apprenticeship Podcast and the reasons why this project matters.

Join us as we begin a series of honest conversations designed to inform, inspire and demonstrate that there isn't just one route to a successful career.

If you have any questions about the podcast, apprenticeships or Mountjoy please send us a message.