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Winchester Cathedral has three apprentices within the Works department who were excited to share their experiences.

Will Radcliffe

“Last summer I decided to take a leap and start a Stonemasonry apprenticeship at Winchester Cathedral. I had not looked at apprenticeships before, but when I saw the opportunity to work at this cherished historic landmark I couldn’t wait. Since starting I’ve surprised myself with what I’ve been able to achieve, from carving and masonry work to the conservation of the beautiful building and estate. I have a great team around me and the perfect environment for learning all facets of the job and I’m thoroughly looking forward to what the future holds.

I was struggling to find a career that I was passionate about, so whether you find yourself stuck, considering a change, or have always wanted to train in a certain avenue, I feel like an apprenticeship is a brilliant place to start as it gives the stability and support to make mistakes while concentrating your skills. I’m very lucky that I found this as it has felt like a turning point for me.”

Martyn Nicholas

“Hi, I’m Martyn and I’m an apprentice joiner carpenter studying architectural joinery.

I have always had an interest in woodwork and when the opportunity came up to study this while working at the cathedral, it made a lot of sense. Undertaking an apprenticeship at the cathedral is really rewarding. The jobs are very varied and it’s not everyday you can say you have worked on a historical building with such historical importance.

I have gained quite a few skills within the first half year of my apprenticeship. I have been improving my techniques in both hand tools and power tools and feel that I have produced some good work that is now used in the cathedral.

For anyone thinking about apprenticeships, my advice would be to go for it as you will be learning a trade and gaining a qualification whilst working at the same time”

Conor Bates

“I chose to do a carpentry apprenticeship because I have always been interested in woodworking and have always found it fascinating that you can use your creativity to construct anything you want to.

My strengths of using my hands and having a creative mind work well together to create and construct something eye catching and stunning. Each day, these skills progress more and more, making me feel confident within my work and better at what I do. As I become more confident, I notice new skills I am developing, such as discussing tasks with colleagues, using my own initiative, interacting with new people and engaging in conversation, and becoming more creative.

Working at Winchester Cathedral as an apprentice carpenter is really fascinating. It’s teaching the young generation about historical work and how to repair, fix and maintain something that was made hundreds of years ago, and it is a privilege. Not only do we maintain the woodwork of our historical buildings, but we also make bespoke furniture items for the cathedral, clergy practices and special events that are held.

If you are skilful with your hands and have a creative mind, an apprenticeship in carpentry is the right path to go down.”

Winchester is part of the Cathedral Workshop Fellowship which provides funding and training for apprenticeships in specialist craft skills. We are grateful for their support.

To find out more about future apprenticeship opportunities, please contact Recruitment@winchester-cathedral.org.uk