Apprentice Carves Out Carpentry Future with Local Housebuilders

Latest government figures show the construction workforce fell to 1.3% in Q3 2025 – a 15% drop from its pre-COVID peak and the lowest level since 2000. With it being National Apprenticeship Week 2026, apprentices such as 20-year-old Freddie Morrison from Milton Keynes are playing a vital role in securing the future of the industry.

Freddie is already laying the foundations for a long-term career in construction as a Level 2 Carpentry Apprentice with Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes, based at the housebuilders’ award-winning Kingsbrook development in Aylesbury.

Growing up in Milton Keynes, Freddie was keen to find a career path that suited his learning style. He said: “I’ve always preferred hands-on work. Carpentry interested me the most, and an apprenticeship felt like the best way to learn while gaining real experience on site.”

As part of his apprenticeship, Freddie works five days a week alongside a qualified carpenter, learning directly on site through practical experience and observation. His day-to-day tasks include fitting walls and window boards, while developing his understanding of housing regulations under the guidance of experienced colleagues.

The apprenticeship also combines site-based training with block-release learning at Stephenson College in Leicestershire. Freddie spends two weeks at a time focusing on theory, before returning to site to put his knowledge into practice.

Freddie added: “You can really see how the theory links to what you are doing on site. Block-release works well for me as it lets me focus fully on college, then fully on work, and I feel better prepared for my final assessments.”

Freddie believes encouraging more young people into construction is increasingly important, particularly as the industry faces a skills shortage and ageing workforce. He said: “Construction remains a valuable and rewarding career choice with growing opportunities. I wanted to be part of the younger generation coming through and learning these skills. My dad is an electrician, so growing up around a practical trade definitely helped spark my interest.”

With around a year left of his Level 2 apprenticeship, Freddie is focused on completing his qualification and progressing on to Level 3.

He concluded: “Even while completing my Level 2, I’m already thinking about the future. Eventually, I’d like to move into site management, which would be a huge step and something I’d really like to work towards.”

Ilir Gjini, Construction Director at Barratt David Wilson North Thames, commented: “Apprenticeships play a vital role in the future of the construction industry, particularly at a time when attracting new talent has never been so important. It is encouraging to hear from apprentices like Freddie, whose passion, commitment and willingness to learn reflect the value of these programmes. We are proud to be able to support people at the start of their careers and wish Freddie the best of luck as he continues his journey with us.”

For those considering a career in construction with Barratt Homes or David Wilson Homes, visit www.barrattcareers.co.uk.