Ukrainian youths land their dream job: how a press campaign changed their lives.

Young people start their careers in construction

According to The Sun: Three young individuals lay the foundations of their future by securing an apprenticeship in construction thanks to The Sun on Sunday.

This summer, we published over 100 apprenticeship vacancies as part of our Builder Better Britain campaign, continuing the initiative launched in 2023.

Mason Newton, a graduate, secured his 'dream job' through our exclusive job listings.

17-year-old Mason from Ilkeston, Derbyshire, shared:

“It has always been my dream to become an apprentice, and if it weren’t for your listing, I might never have gotten this job, so thank you The Sun on Sunday.'

“I expect to start working in about a week, combining on-site practice with classes at Derby College while getting paid for it.”

Mason was thrilled to be accepted for an apprenticeship as a bricklayer at East Midlands Masonry at the end of last month.

The firm is led by Robert Hodgkinson, and his father Ian, one of the stars of the BBC show DIY SOS, serves as the construction director.

Mason noted:

“It’s very hard to find an apprenticeship. You’re competing with many people.'

“I finished school in July, but I started applying for apprenticeships about ten months ago because I knew exactly what I wanted.”

Mason is one of many young professionals grateful for our Builder Better Britain campaign for helping them start their careers in the construction industry.

The campaign's goal is to help people of all ages and backgrounds participate in building the homes, schools, and hospitals that the UK needs.

Experienced apprentices share their experiences

Bricklayer Jacob Bertolino, 19, from Hull, is also grateful for our initiative.

He began his training at Caddick Construction and EN:Able Futures in September last year, noting:

“I’m doing well. Initially, I attended five-week college courses, and then I was quickly sent to work on-site.'

“At first, I worked in a team, but now I work independently with another apprentice.”

“My company builds council houses, and it’s really satisfying – creating something with your own hands and then seeing it become a home for someone.”

“I earn minimum wage, but after I finish my training, I’ll be able to earn £150 a day and won’t have debt like university students.”

Alex White began his training in procurement at EN: Procure after our previous job listing was published two years ago.

20-year-old Alex from Barnsley negotiates supplies for his construction company to provide resources for workers on-site.

He also expresses gratitude to The Sun on Sunday for helping him kick-start his career, stating:

“For me, an apprenticeship is an opportunity to gain practical experience and qualification for free.”

“I finished my A-levels and felt the pressure to go to university, but I knew it wasn’t for me.”

“Fortunately, I was lucky to get one of the few available procurement contracts two years ago. It was the right choice for me, and I’m building a career, so I can’t help but thank The Sun on Sunday for this campaign.”

The success stories of young people starting their careers in construction highlight the importance of initiatives that foster the development of new specialists in this field. Collaboration between educational institutions and companies allows young people to acquire the practical skills necessary for success in the job market, which undoubtedly positively impacts the future of the construction industry in the UK.