A person who dreamed of being a Marine Biologist, an apprentice and someone with 15 years teaching experience walk into a room… Meet Lucas, Brogan and course lead, Mark from Redcar and Cleveland College’s Plumbing Apprenticeship!

Lucas, Brogan and course lead for plumbing, Mark can’t speak highly enough of the benefits of the course. When he was at school, Lucas always wanted to be a Marine Biologist: "I originally wanted to be in a completely different industry, but realising I’d have to do A levels and university really put me off. I knew Mark as he worked with my dad, so it feels like my journey has come full circle, and I’ve ended up doing something I love."

The learners, both 19 years old, completed a L2 Plumbing course, a T-Level and are now on their Plumbing Apprenticeship. They say that Mark sells the course really well, and it makes a massive difference that he has real world industry experience to relate all of his teaching to.

Brogan said: "An apprenticeship is hard work, but worth it. It gives you security in knowing you’ve got skills for life and you’re earning money whilst you’re still training."

Prior to his 15 years in teaching, 10 of those with Redcar and Cleveland College, Mark began his career as an apprentice, spending time working on new builds and commercial properties before finding himself back in the education environment, passing his knowledge and experience onto the next generation. He’s proud that the course currently has a 100% pass rate at End Point Assessment (EPA), a testament to teaching staff and students.

So, what’s next? They’ll be working towards the end of their apprenticeship, hoping to achieve gas certifications. Lucas says that he hopes that a career in plumbing gives him the opportunity to travel the world, with Australia first on his list!

Find out more about Redcar and Cleveland College’s Plumbing courses.