After working in an office-based customer services role for over 20 years, Abdul Quddus Tepu Mirza wanted a change of career and to train as a plasterer so signed up for the college’s free British Gypsum plastering and skimming sector-based work academy programme.
Abdul said: “It’s a brilliant course and the fact I don’t have to pay for it is even better!
“I was a non-skilled person but have developed a range of skills and now have the confidence to get a job in the construction industry.
“I’ve learnt skimming and how to fix plaster boards, patch repair, apply plaster board and plaster curved surfaces, as well as how to do chamfered ceiling lines, and apply plasterboard and window beads.
“I’ve learnt how you need to be disciplined to follow different processes and to work to a timescale to complete a task and if I’ve been stuck on anything the tutor has shown me what I needed to do.
“I’m happy that I’ll get a guaranteed interview at the end of the course as it’s a stepping stone and one step closer to getting a job – I’m 52 and if I can do it, anyone can, it’s never too late to learn!”
