Painting a Successful Future with Apprentice, Jordan Naylor

Deciding what you want to do when leaving school can be a really difficult decision to make! Jordan Naylor, 18, was unsure – like many others. However, after being referred to PM Training through a friend, he is now a successful painting and decorating apprentice with local firm Wallace Contracts 

Jordan's story...

I started my career journey after leaving Trentham High School. There was so much pressure to go to college, so I attended Stoke-on-Trent College in Burslem and did a BTEC in Electrical Installation. I did enjoy the course, but I just felt like it was really theory based. I wanted to work with my hands more! Also, it was only 16 hours and I ideally would have liked something full time.

I got referred to PM Training through a friend. I rang up and got booked onto a three-week taster. That was great! I was able to try out loads of different trades like bricklaying, engineering and more. I originally chose gas and engineering before realising my real passion was painting and decorating. 

It has been one of the best experiences ever. The Learner Services team have been amazing – supporting me with everything. They talk to you like an adult and will literally help you with anything.

I became an apprentice around December 2017 with Wallace Contracts. I love it there! Every day is different. Sometimes I have to work away from home and I really enjoy being able to visit new places! We recently did work at Alton Towers so I get the chance to work on some amazing projects.

On a day-to-day basis, I usually prepare surfaces for painting, learn different types of paint and how they are used, as well as picking up other skills such as tiling. It's great that I dabble in different areas of the job and find out which skills suit me best. 

PM Training has been a breath of fresh air for me. I hope other young people finishing school can be made aware by teachers of how apprenticeships can be an alternative choice to college. I'm looking forward to seeing where my career takes me and I would recommend the experience to anyone! 

If you are considering a career in painting and decorating why not check out Jasmine's success story too and see how you can kick-start your career journey with PM Training today!