Lewis Jones and Simon King, both aged 18, are into the second year of their apprenticeships with Ian Williams, spending one day a week at college and four days with experienced workers from Ian Williams’ Cardiff base.

Already the duo, both from Cardiff, are managing kitchen and bathroom improvement work contracted to Ian Williams, taking projects from the removal of the old units to the last detail of installing the new ones.

They believe the backing given by the firm to local young people is an invaluable boost as they start out in working life.

Lewis said: “Ian Williams was a company I had heard of locally who did apprenticeships, so I called them up. They explained how it worked and I went through the interview process and was lucky enough to be chosen.

“It has been really good. Everyone I am working with is nice and I am learning a lot.

“I have always been interested in carpentry, and liked it at school, so am happy I can now do this training.”

Across the entire organisation, Ian Williams has a target of apprentices representing five per cent of its total staff. It currently employs more than 40 apprentices.

“Each year we choose new apprentices who apply through the Construction Industry Training Board. From the Cardiff unit, we currently have three carpenters, two painters and two plumbers,” said Paul Price, building maintenance manager for Ian Williams, in Cardiff.

“We find the scheme is very successful, helping people gain the skills and knowledge needed to fulfil their chosen career.

“We believe in supporting the communities we work in and Ian Williams has forged partnerships with communities by employing local people for the past 60 years."

Lewis and Simon are attending Colleg Morgannwg, in Pontypridd.

Ian Williams’ Cardiff clients include Cardiff University and Cardiff City Council. It is committed to helping its local authority and housing association clients meet the Welsh Quality Housing Standard.

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