A week dedicated to celebrating the impact apprenticeships have on individuals and employers, National Apprenticeship Week takes place 3 – 7 February this year.

As part of National Apprenticeship Week, we caught up with Alex Butcher, the newest apprentice at Brafe, to find out more about his apprenticeship journey, his current role and why he would recommend apprenticeships to others.

Tell us a little about yourself; what were you doing before you started your apprenticeship?

Before my apprenticeship I was at school 5 days a week, working towards my GCSEs and on the weekend, I was out racing with my dad. When we weren’t out racing, we were in the garage working on the cars. After school I went straight out looking for apprenticeships and immediately, I knew Brafe was the place to be.

What apprenticeship are you currently studying for? 

Level 3 Apprenticeship in Mechanical Maintenance.

Why did you decide to do an apprenticeship with Brafe?

I was looking for a nice local job and a job that would develop my basic engineering skills. I did my work experience with Brafe and during this I got to witness all the departments and the range of different skills involved, which was what I was looking for, so I sent my CV in.

What are the benefits of being an apprentice?

Getting to pretty much do your hobby in a workday while also getting paid for it.

What do you plan to do after your apprenticeship?

I plan to stay with Brafe and potentially do another course if necessary, to get where I wish to be.

What advice would you give others thinking about doing an apprenticeship with Brafe? Would you recommend completing an apprenticeship to others?

I would recommend an apprenticeship. Get on board and get the experience that companies are looking for while getting paid as well.

Brafe are currently recruiting for a variety of roles including apprenticeships. Find out more here.