Copplestone

Hi all.

I would like to know how to go about getting an trainee/apprentice position with a local experienced tiler? My assumption is to write a formal letter and post/fax this to as many local firms and sole trading tilers with the area, with a hope that there is someone/firm that needs the help of a new employee, working his way to full NVQ qualifications.

What is your opinon on what to mention in the letter?

Im turning 22, work full time for mortgage company (world credit crisis has made business incredibly quiet) and I do think the time is about now to start my goal of becoming recognised for a skilled trade, tiling my first of choice.

All of your views and comments are welcome and appreciated.

Regards

Nick

Dave

You might have more chance nick if you approach the bigger firms........good luck and let us know how you get on........

Dave....

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Copplestone

Many thanks. I will try my best.

Regards

Nick

LM Ceramics

best thing to do is to ring firms usually with letters you dont get many replies thats what i did when i left school rung most of the tiling firms in the preston area eventually i found a firm that would take me on as an apprentice

only thing is not sure many tiling firms are interested in sending an apprentice to college a few firms i worked with werent so keen on nvq s the thing is working with a firm they are mainly interested in the apprentice making them money i wanted to work towards an nvq but my firm wouldnt let me they said you would learn more on site than you would at college which is true but i wanted something to show for it.

Sir Ramic

We have a company close by here that send all their new tilers to college and the owner even attends special days at the college. So there are some companies that embrace the training programs and some that, as LM ceramics say believe its better to get out on the site.
Training is the way to go, of that i am sure. it will accelerate the early days of learning how to tile and the theory behind tiling. Although once on site you will find it will be different to the classroom. All knowledge is good.
I suggest that you do as you plan and set the wheels in motion. If you have no luck, get yourself on a good course and then try again. This will show any prospective employer that you are serious.
It is my belief that Training should be followed with a period of work experience under guidance from established tilers or companies. After that time it would be up to you if you decided to go alone or stay with the company. Some people prefer the self employed route and others the comfort of being employed.
What ever happens, good luck to you.

Copplestone

Many thanks for all your responses. CM, I shall take your advice and try calling local firms aswell.
I will consider paying my own college fees if I want to aquire an NVQ, as your right in saying most firms would rather you have on site experience.

Regards

Nick

LM Ceramics

its a shame you werent 18 or under then you could have got the college nvq course paid for i heard it can be quite expensive try asking for a grant first you never know

ChaseTiling

Hi Nick,

What ever you choose, ensure you choose an accredited training centre to get the qualification you are after. Don't be dissillusioned with centres promising you an NVQ after you have forked out a large amount of money to do their non accredited training. It won't happen and you will be very dissapointed

The only places that can do this for you are FULLY accredited City & Guilds Training Centres and Colleges.

Good Luck

Tiling NVQ and Tiling Courses
TF Resident NVQ Advisor: Any questions or advice you need on getting an NVQ, then please ask me. Either PM me or post your questions in the NVQ part of the forum, where I shall be sat.