Tom Daley, an apprentice plumber at Daley Plumbing and Heating, is supporting WaterSafe to promote National Apprenticeship Week 2023 between 6 – 12 February.
He combines studying at Leeds College of Building with working at Daley Plumbing and Heating. Tom explains why he chose a plumbing apprenticeship and why he would recommend it to others.
Tom said: “I started my apprenticeship around seven months ago. I had just finished school and was about to take the next step in life, but had to choose which direction I wanted to go in. So, I decided to join Leeds College of Building as a plumbing apprentice under the name of my dad’s family business, Daley Plumbing and Heating.
“You might think I’ve had it easy for the last seven months because it’s my family’s business but it’s the opposite. Even with the high standards my dad sets, I’ve still enjoyed every minute so far.
“My dad, who is WaterSafe approved, has been plumbing for over 20 years, and he has always told me little things about it every now and then which means I would have some knowledge when starting.”
He added: “A great apprentice should be determined, resilient and willing to learn, because there is always going to be a lot to take in, no matter what trade you go into. Doing an apprenticeship, you gain hands on experience and are faced with real challenges that you have to solve. The best thing is you get paid to learn.
“To be WaterSafe approved means a lot for the business I’m working with and also provides reassurance to the client. For me, it’s great to know my future is in the right hands even though it’s the family business.”