Back to NewsTo mark National Apprenticeship Week (9th – 15th February 2026), apprentices at CG Fry & Son are sharing their stories to highlight how the scheme provides a vital gateway into the construction industry.
Site carpentry apprentice
Archie Warren, 18, has recently reached a major milestone by completing his NVQ level 2 apprenticeship in site carpentry. To further master his craft, Archie is now looking to progress to his level 3 qualification. His training has seen him balance two days a week at Weymouth College with three days on-site experience at CG Fry & Son’s Nottington Park development in Weymouth, and most recently with the contracting team on a project in Eype.
Archie commented: “I really enjoy being on site and the team camaraderie. Choosing an apprenticeship was a great move, and I’d definitely recommend it – I love that I’ve gained a skill that will stay with me for life.
“Carpentry is so interesting because you get a great overview of the entire build and you’re involved in all stages from start to finish. It’s a passion that’s even followed me home and I’m often making and fixing things for my family now. It’s more than just a job; it’s a skill I love using.”
Construction Design and Build Technical apprentice
For Yosita Kasemsuk, 20, joining CG Fry & Son was a natural choice. Now an apprentice trainee architectural technician, Yosita’s connection to the company spans a decade.
“My parents have both worked at CG Fry & Son for around ten years, so I grew up knowing it was a fantastic company with a great reputation,” Yosita explains.
After completing her A Levels, Yosita began her two-year apprenticeship in September 2025. Her week is split between studying at Exeter College and gaining vital hands-on experience within the CG Fry & Son design team.
“I love the variety that an apprenticeship offers,” she says. “Learning the theory in college is important, but working alongside experienced professionals makes such a difference and being out on-site really brings the drawings to life. Plus, the ‘earn while you learn’ aspect is a huge advantage, I really recommend the apprenticeship route and I’m excited to be starting my career in such an interesting field.”
A history of apprenticeships
The theme for National Apprenticeship Week 2026 is ‘skills for life’, a concept embodied by James Ireland, 54, who has built a long-standing career with the firm.
Having joined CG Fry & Son as a joinery apprentice 38 years ago, James has risen through the ranks to lead the company’s joinery workshop and a team of specialist tradespeople.
"I’ve been with the company ever since my first interview with Eddy Fry," James reflects.
"I have spent over three decades honing my craft and expanding my knowledge, including taking further courses in surveying, but it all started with that initial apprenticeship."
Today, James bridges the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern design, overseeing everything from CAD drawings to the delicate refurbishment of listed buildings.
"The variety is incredible. In the workshop, we create everything from gates for our new homes to intricate staircases for refurbishments. One day we might be matching historic architraves and the next, we’re recreating local architectural details for porches. It is a fantastic craft, so much so that I can’t help getting involved in projects at home too!"
James added: "Apprenticeships are positions that are heavily valued within the business. My own training enabled me to lead a very successful and enjoyable career here, and it’s great to see new apprentices start their careers here too.”
Harry’s journey of craftsmanship
After successfully completing his level 2 Joinery qualification at Weymouth College, Harry Carpenter, 20, has embarked on a new level 2 apprenticeship in site carpentry at Yeovil College. His current training follows a block-release structure, spending one week out of every five in college to study the theory and technical requirements of the NVQ, with the remaining time spent gaining vital practical experience on-site.
Harry has followed his father into the construction industry. Reflecting on his journey so far, Harry said: "I’ve spent the last four and a half years in CG Fry & Son’s joinery workshop, which gave me a fantastic foundation. Now, I’m really looking forward to gaining more site experience and seeing how those skills translate to a live build environment."
When asked what advice he would give to other young people considering their next steps, Harry’s message is clear: "I’d definitely say go for it. There are so many different options within the industry and the hands-on nature of the work is brilliant. For me, an apprenticeship was the best move; I’m so glad I chose this path."
Construction Design and Build Technical apprentice
We hear how a school careers initiative paved the way for Finn Caws-Lovelace to launch his career in architecture…
Finn’s journey into the construction industry began during his A Levels at the Gryphon School in Sherborne. During a school-led careers initiative, Finn sat for a mock interview with Sarah at CG Fry & Son.
“I knew I was interested in architecture, and Sarah’s feedback was incredibly positive,” Finn said. “She offered great advice on how to break into the industry, which really boosted my confidence.”
Inspired by his father’s own success with apprenticeships, Finn has just completed a successful six-month internship with the firm and is set to begin a full-time apprenticeship as a trainee architectural technician.
“I love learning practically,” Finn explains. “I’ve already gained so much insight during my internship; I cannot wait to start my apprenticeship and I’m ready to hit the ground running.”
The two year apprenticeship course involves working four days a week in CG Fry & Son’s Design team, gaining hands-on experience, and one day a week studying for a Construction Design and Build Technician level 4 qualification at Exeter College.
Before diving into his new career in September, 18 year old Finn is taking a well-earned break to travel around Europe. He lives in Dorset with his large family – including two brothers, two sisters, and three labradors.
He added: “I feel so lucky to be on this career path already and can definitely recommend it to others.”
For further details on CG Fry & Son and their commitment to training the next generation, visit www.cgfry.co.uk and for more information on National Apprenticeship Week visit www.nationalapprenticeshipweek.co.uk