National Apprenticeship Week 2025 is more than just a celebration – it’s a testament to the transformative power of learning and opportunity. Here at Witton Lodge Community Association, we are committed to supporting young people into employment and we are delighted to celebrate this important week by shining a spotlight on our newest Apprentice, Michael Dobbin. His journey represents the heart of what we do: turning potential into professional success, one apprenticeship at a time. #NAW2025

Michael is our second Apprentice alongside our Finance Apprentice, Aminah Mahmood who we interviewed for last years National Apprenticeship Week. You can also read all about Aminah’s apprenticeship journey here.

In this blog, we’ll explore Michael’s journey, the impact of apprenticeships, and how Witton Lodge continues to be a catalyst for local talent and community growth.

Hi Michael! Can you tell us more about your Apprenticeship.

I joined Witton Lodge as an Maintenance & Gardener Apprentice. I work as part of Witton Lodge’s Trusted Hands team, supporting our tenants and local residents with property maintenance and gardening support.

What have you learnt so far on your apprenticeship with WLCA?

I’ve learnt a lot since joining Witton Lodge including how to fix and hang doors, fix taps and showers as well as basic plumbing. I’ve also improved my skills with painting and decorating and hanging and fixing lights. As well as internal work, I’ve also been learning aout gardening as well.

What is your day to day work like at WLCA? 

I work within the housing team at Witton Lodge Community Association. The organisation owns many properties and I work with the team that oversee their maintenance and repairs each day as well as providing gardening services. We provide a range of services including decorating and we also support residents with general DIY jobs, this can be anything from building flat packs to hanging a door to rewiring a plug. As well as supporting our tenants we also offer our services through Trusted Hands which is available to all residents across the community to use for a small charge.

Would you recommend people do apprenticeships? 

Yes, I would recommend people do an apprenticeship as you earn while you learn. Also, once you’ve passed you can be a qualified maintenance operative which can open wider opportunities for your career development.

Have you got any advice for anything considering an apprenticeship?

Yes! Don’t be shy to ask questions and ask and ask again if you don’t understand and if make sure you ask if you can have a go on the tools. My advice would be to ensure you turn up willing to work, have a positive attitude and good work ethic and it will be ok.

Thanks to Michael for sharing her apprenticeship journey with us and for all his hard work in supporting our local community with all their DIY and gardening needs!  If you’re interested in furthering your career with Witton Lodge, contact our Employment & Skills team for further information. Email Marcia.lewis@wittonlodge.org.uk or call 0121 382 1930.