From Work Experience to Apprenticeship

At Housing Plus Group, we’re proud to support tenants and young people into employment through our employability programme. One of the latest success stories is 16-year-old tenant Joe Rann, who has recently secured a carpentry apprenticeship with us.

Joe first joined us in 2024, aged 15, while in Year 10 at Thomas Telford School. He completed a week of work experience with our carpentry team and enjoyed it so much that he returned twice more in year 11. Alongside his placements, Joe received one-to-one employability support, including help with applications and interview skills, to prepare him for apprenticeship opportunities.

During his placements, Joe was partnered with Advanced Craft Carpenter Tony Druce. Tony took Joe under his wing, teaching him the trade and encouraging him to get hands-on. Their working relationship quickly grew into a friendship, with Joe asking to return to work alongside Tony for his additional placements.

This summer, Joe’s determination paid off when he was offered an apprenticeship at just 16. To celebrate, Tony presented Joe with his first hammer – the same make and model Tony bought when he began his own apprenticeship 42 years ago.

Tony said:

“I got mine when I was 16 and still have the same one. I’m getting Joe the exact same weight and brand. I’ve made a friend for life with this lad and will always be there to support him. I’m hoping this is the start of something really good for Joe – he more than deserves it.”

Joe added:

“When I was in Year 10 my school put out lots of work experience opportunities and I saw one at Housing Plus Group and thought I’d give it a go. I did my first week and thought this is what I want to do. I went back in Year 11 for more weeks and then applied for my apprenticeship.

It’s the freedom – you’re driving about, meeting different people every day, doing a variety of jobs. I can’t sit at a desk all day, I have to be doing something. Tony is a great guy, the funniest person I’ve ever met. He included me, taught me patiently, and helped me find my way. When I started my apprenticeship, he gave me my first tool – the same hammer he got when he was 16. That meant a lot.”

Gill Price, Social Value Coordinator at Housing Plus Group, added:

“Joe’s journey shows exactly what our employability programme is designed to achieve. By giving young people the chance to experience the workplace, build confidence and develop practical skills, we help them take the next step into employment. Seeing Joe secure his apprenticeship at 16 is a fantastic outcome and a credit to his determination.”

4th December 2025