A Mansfield Woodhouse house builder has demonstrated its commitment to investing in local talent by recruiting three new apprentices.

Rippon Homes has welcomed joinery apprentice Kieran Johnson (17), apprentice bricklayer George Johnson (16) and apprentice plasterer Corey Knowles (20) onto its annual apprenticeship scheme.

Kieran, of Mansfield, said: “It offers a nice balance between learning on site and in the classroom.

“I’m enjoying both aspects of the training. I’m working towards an NVQ Level One in joinery, which mostly covers learning hand tools and bench work, and I have been able to put this into practice working on joisting at developments in Wingerworth and Pontefract.”

The trio join apprentice bricklayer Matthew Walker (18), and apprentice joiner Brad Devonshire (20), who are part way through their training.

Brad, of Skegby, said: “I have always been interested in learning a trade and thought an apprenticeship would be the best way.

“I have been with the company for 18 months and I’m working towards a City and Guilds Level Two in joinery. So far, I have gained a lot of experience from being on site four days a week and spend just one day a week in the classroom.”

Ian Dyke, managing director at Rippon Homes, said: “We embrace every opportunity to help talented local young people gain the skills they need to help us build the homes of the future and are always keen to invest in new talent.”

To find out more about apprenticeships at Rippon Homes call 01623 659000 or go to www.ripponhomes.co.uk

Pictured are George Johnson, Matthew Walker, Brad Devonshire and Corey Knowles.