Apprentice turns Teacher in Construction Success

With National Apprenticeship Week well under way we wanted to recognise the achievement of one of our own, lecturer in Trowel Occupations and 14-16 School Links, Zac Wilkinson, who originally studied an Apprenticeship in Construction.

Upon leaving Walton-Le-Dale High School, Zac joined his father’s building business as a bricklaying apprentice, going on to complete his Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications.

Starting at the bottom of the chain as a labourer, Zac rolled up his sleeves and is now an experienced site foreman in charge of supervising staff, ordering materials and ensuring that jobs are kept on schedule.

A decade on and Zac has built up a wealth of industry experience and is now co-director of the building firm whilst also teaching at Preston’s College.

Zac gained his teaching qualification after he completed his PCGE here at Preston’s College and now teaches aspiring bricklayers.

Zac said: “I was nervous about the course as I wasn’t the most academic but I had every confidence in my technical knowledge and experience, and wanted to share my expertise with the next generation.

“My tutor provided full support throughout my studies, giving me confidence in myself and my ability to deliver lessons. Good teachers make a lasting impact on the lives of their learners, which is why I came back to study at Preston’s College, as I had a fantastic experience as a school leaver.”

You can connect with Zac on LinkedIn or find out more about the College’s construction apprentices here .