Last September, Lara Trinidade Da Ferreira, began as an apprentice in the BECK workshop. The BECK apprenticeship scheme has an annual intake of 5-6 apprentices a year, offering valuable, hands-on experience to young people who are able to learn from some of the most talented master craftspeople in the joinery industry. In a fantastic milestone for the workshop, Lara is the first female apprentice to have joined the team. To celebrate International Women’s Day, we speak to Lara about her journey into joinery and to find out how her apprenticeship is going.
***
What drew you to a career in joinery?
“Fixing things around the house when I was growing up was something that I always liked doing. When I was at school, I went down the normal academic route, as girls are not usually encouraged to consider a career in the trades. Everyone just talks about going to university. But as time went on, I realised that doing something hands-on was a much better fit for my personality.
“I worked for a landscaping company and then went on to do painting and decorating. I enjoyed meeting people from lots of different trades and getting to see what they all did. Seeing how carpenters and joiners worked really surprised and impressed me. They seemed to be the trades having the most fun on sites. I also liked the logical aspect of putting the pieces of joinery together.”
How have you found your first term at BECK?
“I go to college on Mondays where I am currently working towards a Level 3 Architectural Joinery Standard qualification and then I am in the BECK workshop for the rest of the week. Before starting here, I did two years at college so I am now in the third year of my course and first year of my apprenticeship. Godfrey is my mentor. He is patient, experienced and has a contagious energy that makes the working day more fun.