TO mark this week’s National Apprenticeship Week an assistant site manager at Vistry Group is keen to highlight the apprenticeship route into the industry after it gave him his career break.

Levi Sullivan, 30, who lives in Dawlish and works at the Matford Brook development in Exeter, joined the company in 2018 as a labourer.

“After school, I obtained a level one course in electrical installation and levels one and two in plastering at South Devon College, before starting work as a labourer for an agency,” said Levi recalling his experience.

“I was delighted when I secured a full-time labouring position and was then promoted to site construction supervisor. I made it known that I was keen to progress and learn as much as possible, and it was suggested that I try the apprenticeship route, which was a great move as it enabled me to earn and learn simultaneously.”

Levi then became an apprentice trainee assistant site manager, which took two years to complete.

“I’d spend four days on site, gaining on the job experience, and a Thursday studying towards my NVQ level four in site management with the National Housebuilding Council (NHBC), he continued.

“I loved the evidence-based nature of the course, as learning practically suited me perfectly. Vistry not only provided the learning opportunities, but they mentored me and funded my courses, including my maths and English GCSE re-takes.”

Levi is now an assistant site manager and is working towards his level six NVQ qualification in construction site management with the NHBC.

He added: “I absolutely love my job, which involves supporting the site manager and helping to deliver high quality homes on time and to budget. I manage the homes once the roofs are on, coordinate all the health and safety, and look after our customers on site.

“The role requires you to be well organised and good at communicating with people, it’s ultimately all about the customers and there’s nothing more satisfying than seeing happy residents moving in to their new home.”

“In the next five years I’d like to achieve my level six NVQ and continue working towards a site management position, but for now I’m just happy that I’ve found a career I enjoy – I feel incredibly lucky and would thoroughly recommend it as a career route.”

In his spare time, Levi loves going to the gym and taking long walks with Bailey, his cocker spaniel. He lives in Dawlish with his partner, Caitlin, and they are expecting their first baby in May.

Emma Colin, regional managing director for Vistry’s Devon South West region, said: “Levi is a fantastic assistant site manager and it’s been great to see him progress.

“He recently took part in the National Apprenticeship Show in Exeter, where he spoke directly to students, teachers and parents about the apprenticeship route and the training opportunities available at Vistry – he’s shown just how successful apprenticeships can be.”

Emma added: “The industry needs 45,500 new workers per year to meet UK construction demand and apprenticeships and training facilities like our Skills Academies, will help bridge the gap and inspire the next generation of house builders.”