Why Choosing an Apprenticeship Over University Gave Me a Head Start on My Career and Homeownership Dreams

Matthew Rutherford, an apprentice carpenter from County Down, Northern Ireland, recently achieved national recognition as the Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2024 champion. He shared his journey, which started with a push from society toward university.

After completing his GCSEs, Matthew faced pressure to pursue A-Levels and then enroll in university, even though he felt that wasn’t the right path for him. “I always wanted to work with my hands,” he explained. Ultimately, he convinced his parents that an apprenticeship in carpentry was worth pursuing, marking the beginning of a fulfilling career.

Matthew grew up surrounded by projects and renovations. His father was passionate about property maintenance, giving Matthew hands-on experience with building garages and improving their home. Additionally, he worked for construction companies and a landscape architect, which only fueled his passion for creating spaces.

For Matthew, carpentry offers a unique perspective. “Carpenters are there from the start to the finish of a project,” he noted. They witness every step, from laying foundations to the final touches. This comprehensive involvement is a big part of why he chose this trade.

Today, as a part of his three-year apprenticeship, Matthew attends college once a week to study carpentry alongside practical work. The blend of learning at school and on-the-job training helps him grasp essential skills, including health and safety. As he works with experienced tradespeople, he learns by asking questions and observing, leading to noticeable progress in his abilities.

Winning a national apprenticeship award from Screwfix, which came with tools and training worth over £10,000, has been a significant boost for Matthew. “I didn’t expect this kind of support when I was in school,” he admitted.

One significant benefit of an apprenticeship is that he earns while he learns. Unlike many of his university friends, who are accumulating debt, Matthew is starting to save. “It feels like I have a four-year head start, plus I’m gaining valuable qualifications,” he shared.

Matthew also wants to challenge the stereotype that trades are a secondary choice. “Many people assume a trade is only for those who can’t go to university,” he explained. He believes this perception undervalues skilled work, which is crucial in everyday life. From the roads we drive on to the buildings we use, skilled tradespeople play a vital role. “We trust tradespeople to do their job well every day,” he said, emphasizing the pride that comes from craftsmanship.

Currently, the demand for skilled trades is rising. A report from the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) indicates a significant need for skilled workers in the UK, with over 250,000 new workers needed by 2026. This increasing demand highlights the importance of apprenticeships like Matthew’s.

In the end, Matthew’s story reflects a growing recognition of vocational training as a valuable and respected career path. He encourages others to consider an apprenticeship, emphasizing the rewards of hands-on experience and the chance to work alongside seasoned professionals. “Learning on the job is something that can’t be replicated in a classroom,” he added.

For those looking to explore carpentry or other trades, the benefits are clear: skills that last, while earning and building a future.



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