Modern Apprenticeship opens doors for Billy
A commitment to learning and a strong work ethic has opened doors for Perthshire apprentice Billy Bagnall.
Fitting windows and doors as an apprentice fenestration installer has unlocked his career ambitions after he almost gave up on education.
Billy, 19, moved from Essex to St Fillans in Perthshire three years ago and faced a fork in the road.
Billy said: “I wasn’t good at school and my behaviour was poor.”
But Billy says making the decision to start an apprenticeship is the best one he’s ever made.
He explained: “My apprenticeship has given me better opportunities in life. I have a new direction.”
Billy was employed by Perth fenestration specialists Sidey Solutions in 2023 after re-engaging with education and studying joinery at Perth College.
The teenager has honed his joinery and carpentry skills to such a high standard that he completed finishes on high-value conservatories during his training – typically reserved for more experienced professionals.
An experienced installer is expected to fit three frames daily – now Billy completes a minimum of two.
Billy said: “I love how hands-on the apprenticeship role is. There’s a lot of satisfaction in the work.”
Sidey Community Benefits Manager Donna Montgomery said: “Billy is a fantastic ambassador for Sidey and apprenticeships. He has set a high standard.
“Billy’s commitment, communication, teamwork, and positive attitude, are second to none. He uses his initiative to overcome problems and has the confidence and skills to manage customer meetings.”
Alongside his Modern Apprenticeship, Billy has gone above and beyond, qualifying as a First Aider at Work, he also holds a CSCS card to enable him to work safely on construction sites, has a PASMA card for the erection of mobile tower scaffolding, and has completed asbestos awareness and manual handling.
He also gives his time to leading work experience for senior school pupils, taking responsibility for their learning during practical activities.
Billy said: “I really enjoy working with young people who are thinking about leaving school and telling them how apprenticeships can give them a better start in life.”
Modern Apprenticeships and apprentices are made for business, developed with employers to provide skills in demand. They are jobs open to anyone aged 16 and over who wants to work, learn and earn.
Sidey introduced apprenticeships in 2022 to ensure a continuous pipeline of talent.
Donna said: “Apprenticeships are an ideal way for us to bring new talent into our business, allowing us to invest in and build our own talent pool of professionally qualified and committed employees.”
Billy is saving for a mortgage and one day, he hopes to have his own company.
He said: “I’d love to take on apprentices to give people the same opportunities I’ve had.”
Claire McCallum of learning provider RT Resources said: “Billy fully committed to his apprenticeship and took on board everything he was taught. We are delighted at how far Billy has come.”
In 2024, Billy was named Developing the Young Workforce, Tay Cities Modern Apprentice of the Year. He’s nominated for the Modern Apprentice of the Year SCQF Level 5 category sponsored by Arnold Clark at the Scottish Apprenticeship Awards.
Billy said: “I’m buzzing to be a finalist in the Scottish Apprenticeship Awards – I’m so happy.”
The winner of the Modern Apprentice of the Year SCQF Level 5 category will be revealed at the Scottish Apprenticeship Awards, which takes place on 27 February in the run-up to Scottish Apprenticeship Week (3 to 7 March).
Find out more about the award finalists and the event by visiting the awards pages of apprenticeships.scot.