"National Apprenticeship Week (NAW 2019) takes place 4 to 8 March 2019.
This annual celebration of apprenticeships will bring the whole apprenticeship community together to celebrate the impact of apprenticeships on individuals, employers and the economy."
We're celebrating by getting to know one of our newest apprentices - Kristian Lewis.
What apprenticeship are you studying?
I’m a manufacturing apprentice which is an advanced engineering apprenticeship.
What’s something you do every day at Polypipe?
Currently I’m doing the daily material counts, once a week I’ll do a slightly more in-depth count.
What’s something you wanted to do when you were younger?
It sounds quite generic but I actually wanted to be a racing driver as a kid. It probably started when I was around three or four, back when Michael Schumacher was still racing. I used to be really good at go karting when I was younger too and had a good chance of going quite far. Unfortunately, we didn’t have enough money to take the next step.
Favourite subject in school, and why?
I had a few. First one was my GCSE Engineering class, I liked getting my hands dirty and making things. Second was History, I just enjoyed learning about the past. I also liked PE, despite being ridiculously unfit now.
Why are apprenticeships good for companies?
They are good for employers and apprentices can bring fresh ideas to the workplace as well as
gaining experience from a vast variety of different people.
Why was an apprenticeship right for you?
An apprenticeship was right for me as I wanted to gain more workplace experience while gaining extra qualifications.
What’s some advice you’d give to young people thinking about doing an apprenticeship?
Do it. You get the workplace experience and the qualifications too. Just make sure you pick one you’re going to like.
How have you found Polypipe?
It’s been good for the most part, I’ve have my ups and downs over the last 18 months but it’s been enjoyable.
What is your general role at Polypipe?
My general role here is the manufacture of the large diameter RXL fittings as well as smaller diameter catchpits and other bespoke items.