Ethan the Right Pick for New Partnership

A local teenager has taken a significant step towards a future career in plumbing thanks to a new partnership between Slough Borough Council and Osborne.

In December, Osborne Communities started a contract with the council for planned works and repairs to over 7,000 homes, central to which is a commitment to providing local people with education, employment and skills opportunities.

With apprenticeships at record levels nationally Ethan Pickford, who lives near the partners’ shared office in Langley, became the first apprentice recruited on the new partnership when he commenced an NVQ Level 2 in Plumbing and Domestic Heating in February.

Osborne Training and Development Coordinator Serena Phillips explained: “We are delighted to offer Ethan an apprenticeship not only because he is hopefully the first of many through our partnership with Slough, but because of the exemplary attitude, initiative and commitment he has already demonstrated.”
“Having approached us, Ethan has been gaining work experience alongside our Multi Skilled Plumber Steve Cobbler, and has shown a real desire to further his skills. By offering him a paid apprenticeship he can now focus on this with the support he needs to become a highly skilled operative in the future.”

Over 90% of apprentices currently go into work or further training and following the two year course, delivered alongside training provider JTL, Ethan hopes to progress to a level 3 qualification.
Ethan said: “I am really pleased to have started my apprenticeship with Osborne. Having the support I need and being paid whilst I am learning has made a huge difference to me and I am excited to be progressing towards a career as a plumber.
“I’m also really pleased that I will continue to work with Steve as my mentor as I wouldn’t be where I am without his support and encouragement.”
John Griffiths, Head of Neighbourhood Services at Slough Borough Council, said: “Providing opportunities for the people of Slough is central to our partnership with Osborne and apprenticeships are a key element of this, preparing our workforce of the future.
“I am delighted that Ethan will be the first apprentice since our partnership was launched and look forward to many more coming through the doors in the months and years to come.”