Robbie completed his GCSEs and A-Levels at Lurgan College before going into the world of work. After working in a few different jobs, Robbie decided he wanted to work in a trade. He says, “I wanted to study a trade because there’s no shortage of work to be found for them, and carpentry and joinery just made the most sense for me. I chose SERC because it’s local to me, and because I liked the progression route the traineeship offers onto an apprenticeship after completing the course.”
“The practical side is my favourite part of the course. In class we have done a few projects so far. We’ve drawn out the schematics for doors and then made them using the workshop’s drills, saws, impact drivers and machines like the chop saw and planer - the workshop has everything you need to make your projects. In term of the theory on the course, we’ve learnt about health and safety, how to use correct PPE, as well as how to properly lay foundations and the different stages of building. All the skills I learn in class are just making me more employable at the end of the day.”
“My placement is with JHS Roofing, a small company based in Lurgan. I really enjoy getting hands-on experience with materials in the SERC workshop and then going out on site to see how what I’ve learned in class directly applies to the work I do. For example, a lot of the work I do on my placement involves fitting doors, which is something we cover in detail in the SERC workshop. I really enjoy the work, and it's nice working for a smaller company. I have much more direct contact with my boss than I would in a larger organisation, and that’s helped me learn more about the business side of the industry—like how to price jobs properly”
“After my traineeship, I’d love to start the Level 3 Carpentry and Joinery Apprenticeship at the college. Longterm, I’d like to be self-employed and work in the industry; I feel like everything that I’m learning and working on right now is adding to my skillset and getting me towards that goal.”
Robbie concludes, “If you’re interested in a trade, I’d definitely recommend this course. Getting this qualification makes you much more employable and qualifications are only getting more important in the industry, whether you want to work for a company or for yourself. The facilities are very good with good quality tools, and the tutors are very good as well.”
Apply now for courses commencing September 2026. Real Learning for Real Life #BetterOffAtSERC.
