A TEENAGER looking to kickstart his career as an electrician has been handed £200 worth of tools. 

Bryce Kilcoyne, 17, has been gifted the tools as well as a toolbox by Jewson Partnership Solutions. 

He is one of 12 new Wareham-based Aster apprentices being trained in a range of professions including electrical, plumbing and heating, surveying and carpentry. 

The apprentices met for the first time at a Jewson branch where they collected their tools and toolboxes.  

The young electrician said: “Having the tool donations means I am able to do jobs a lot easier and it will support me in college.” 

Helen Schoolar, head of strategic partnerships at Jewson Partnership Solutions, added: "Our donation of £200 vouchers per apprentice towards tools and equipment is a testament to our belief in the importance of empowering the next generation of skilled professionals with the tools and equipment they need to excel in their training and contribute to the growth of the construction industry. 

“Apprenticeships are the backbone of the construction industry, providing a pathway for individuals to gain hands-on experience, develop essential skills and contribute to the ongoing success of the industry. 

“This initiative is a testament to our commitment to nurturing talent and promoting education to help ensure long-term success of the sector." 

Meanwhile, Jess Scull, apprenticeship partner at Aster Group said: “I am thrilled that Jewson Partnership Solutions recognise, as we do, the huge value of our apprenticeship schemes, developing future talent for the housing sector.  

“Their generosity in gifting high-quality tools to our apprentices demonstrates our combined commitment to support skills development in our local communities.” 

Aster’s apprenticeship programme enables people of all ages to learn and gain experience in a variety of roles across the business each year. 

Since 2015, Aster has supported 82 apprentices in completing their training and becoming fully qualified in a variety of roles from plumbing and carpentry, to housing and finance.  

The group says it has played a vital role in maintaining the number of skilled people it needs in the business. 

Apprentices often progress through the company via promotions.