At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn carpentry skills while working on real projects and making a difference in the community.
- Company: Join Mears Group, a leader in housing and care services with a strong social responsibility ethos.
- Benefits: Earn a competitive salary, receive tools and training, plus enjoy 25 days of annual leave.
- Other info: Enjoy perks like discounts, driving lesson contributions, and a fun company-wide celebration.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career with hands-on experience and an industry-recognised qualification.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and maths at grade 4 or above; a passion for learning is essential.
The predicted salary is between 800 - 1200 £ per month.
Annual salary: up to £28,186.33
Course title: Carpentry and Joinery level 2
Location: Thanet
Contract Type: Fixed Term Apprenticeship
Salary:
- Age 16-18: £7.96 per hour - 40 hours per week (including time at college)
- Age 19-20: £11.06 per hour - 42.5 hours per week (including time at college)
- Age 21+: £12.21 per hour (rising to £12.71 in April) - 42.5 hours per week (including time at college)
Training provider: EKC Group
You will join Mears Group in the week commencing 03/08/2026, and your apprenticeship course will begin in the week commencing 21/09/2026. The programme has an expected duration of approximately 24 months.
About apprenticeships at Mears Group:
Apprenticeships are an underpinning part of Mears' philosophy; we are committed to developing the next generation of our workforce, many of our most senior people started their working life as an apprentice. Whether you are fresh out of school or college or looking for a complete career change, Mears can offer you a great foundation to your future career and beyond. All our Apprentices are paid above the national minimum wage, and you'll be paid for your normal working hours plus your attendance at college, with the opportunity to get real life experiences such as working in people's homes, getting involved in community projects and improving people's lives by being customer focused.
What does a life as a Carpenter & Joiner look like:
A Site Carpenter & Joiner will usually work on a building site, or in domestic and commercial premises, preparing and fixing building components from the initial erection of a new building, through to the installation of all necessary fixtures and fittings, as well as a range of repair and maintenance activities in both new and old buildings. A Site Carpenter would generally liaise with other trades such as bricklayers, plasterers and plumbers, supervisors, site management and contractors.
The apprenticeship course will cover the following:
- Comply with health and safety regulations, standards, and guidance.
- Identify and use safety control equipment, for example, RPE, dust suppression, PPE and LEV.
- Comply with environmental and sustainability regulations, standards, and guidance. Segregate resources for reuse, recycling and disposal.
- Comply with industry regulations, standards, and guidance.
- Prepare and maintain a safe working area.
- Interpret and use information from drawings and specifications.
- Estimate required materials and produce a cutting list.
- Verbally communicate with others, applying construction terminology.
- Apply site carpenter techniques and practices to construction of rafter roofs, including trussed (prefabricated) and traditional (built on site) including the construction of verge, eaves and fitting loft access.
- Use and store laser levels for example cross line laser.
- Form connections, for example, using joints, nails, screws, bolts and adhesive.
- Apply measuring, marking out, cutting (square and angled), mitring, hinging and recessing techniques.
- Carrying out splicing and scribing techniques.
What do you need to be a successful applicant:
- GCSEs in English and maths at grade 4 or above
- The ability to travel to your college provider and to your branch when required
- A genuine desire to learn and develop strong technical knowledge, including the skills, technology, and safety procedures needed to carry out the full range of tasks
- Strong communication skills
- Ability to build and maintain positive customer and client relationships
Please note due to the nature of the role successful applicants are required to complete a basic Math & English test with potential of a practical test at interview stage.
What you will get:
- Tools, Chromebook, and uniform supplied
- An industry recognised qualification
- 25 days' annual leave, plus bank holidays
- £250 contribution towards driving lessons
- Annual Mears Fun Day - a company wide celebration as a thank you from the Executive Team
- Support from Mears Group Apprentice Ambassadors
- Apprenticeship events and reward trips
- Staff perks through Mears Rewards - including discounts on weekly groceries (up to 10%), holidays, eye test vouchers, ShareSave scheme, and more
Application Process:
All applicants must submit their CV and complete the apprenticeship questionnaire via the Mears Careers website. If shortlisted, you will be contacted to confirm whether you have been selected for the next stage - this may be an assessment centre or an individual interview. Please note: as part of the selection process, you will be required to complete a basic maths and English test, similar to the assessments needed to join the college.
A bit about us:
Mears Group PLC is a leading provider of housing and care services in the UK. With a strong emphasis on social responsibility and community well-being, Mears specialises in delivering housing solutions, maintenance services, and care support to a diverse client base. The group's expertise encompasses responsive repairs, planned maintenance, and housing management, contributing to the overall improvement of living conditions for individuals and communities. Mears Group is committed to fostering a positive impact on society, making it an attractive prospect for individuals seeking a career in a socially responsible and dynamic organisation. A career with Mears Group means putting people and customers at the heart of what you do, every day. Our culture is built on what we call our Red Thread - the common values we share that make us what we are.
All our roles require candidates to have the entitlement to work within the UK, Mears does not currently offer visa sponsorship. Candidates should be aware that all our roles are subject to relevant Background, Identity & Security checks before commencement of employment.
At Mears Group, we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive, we are a Disability Confident employer, valuing individuality and ensuring equal opportunities for all. We proudly support the Armed Forces Covenant and are honoured to have achieved the Gold Award in the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) to coincide with this, we hold an Endorser Award for the Career Transition Partnership, recognising our commitment to veterans transitioning into civilian careers. In our continued effort to promote social mobility, we invite applicants to voluntarily share their background information during the application stages to help us better understand the diverse experiences of our candidates. This is to ensure we are committed to improving social mobility. We use the Social Mobility Index to assess and enhance opportunities for individuals from diverse backgrounds. These questions are optional and will not impact your ability to apply.
Apprentice Carpenter in Broadstairs employer: Mears Group PLC
Mears Group is an exceptional employer that prioritises the development of its workforce through comprehensive apprenticeship programmes, offering a solid foundation for your future career in carpentry. Located in Thanet, our inclusive work culture fosters personal growth and community engagement, with benefits such as competitive pay, tools and uniform provided, and opportunities for real-life experiences that make a meaningful impact on people's lives. Join us to be part of a socially responsible organisation that values its employees and their contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprentice Carpenter in Broadstairs
✨Get Your Hands Dirty
In skilled trades, practical experience is everything. Consider volunteering or doing odd jobs in your area to build up your skills and visibility. Local businesses often appreciate helping hands and it might just lead to a full-time gig!
✨Join Trade Associations
Look into joining organisations specific to your trade (like the National Federation of Builders or similar). They often have job boards, networking events, and apprenticeships that can put you in touch with employers who value skilled workers. Plus, being part of these communities adds credibility to your profiles!
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Craft a portfolio that highlights your craftsmanship—before and after photos, project descriptions, and client testimonials are all golden! Share this on platforms that cater to skilled trades, like Instagram or dedicated forums, to attract potential employers looking for your skillset.
✨Apply Directly and Follow Up
Don’t just rely on job boards—visit local businesses, introduce yourself, and drop off your CV. Building rapport face-to-face can work wonders in the skilled trades sector. And remember, following up after applying through our website shows dedication; it might just give you an edge over other candidates!
We think you need these skills to ace Apprentice Carpenter in Broadstairs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills with Certificates:In the skilled trades world, your practical skills and certifications are key! Make sure you highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've completed. If you’ve got a trade-specific certificate, like an NVQ or City & Guilds, include it in your CV to catch Mears Group PLC's eye.
Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV; tailor it specifically for the skilled trades role at Mears Group PLC. Emphasise your hands-on experience, the tools and techniques you’re proficient in, and any notifiable compliance standards you've met. This shows that you’ve put thought into your application.
Highlight Your Projects or Achievements:Don’t forget to showcase any significant projects or achievements in your cover letter. Whether it’s completing a complex installation or meeting deadlines on a large project, these details make a big difference. They help paint a picture of your expertise and dedication!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:When applying for a full-time role in skilled trades, keep your writing to the point. Hiring managers appreciate clear, concise applications. Focus on relevant experiences and skills, and avoid fluff. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can get the job done—so show them you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mears Group PLC
✨Master the Hands-On Skills
In skilled trades, practical skills matter a ton. Be ready to showcase your hands-on abilities during the interview—whether it's through a practical test or a demonstration of your craftsmanship. Bring your best examples of past projects to discuss them in detail!
✨Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand
Employers in the skilled trades often want to hear about your proficiency with specific tools and equipment. Brush up on the tools relevant to your field and be prepared to discuss your experiences using them. This shows you’re not just experienced but also safe and competent.
✨Be Ready to Talk About Safety Practices
Safety is paramount in skilled trades. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment—a quality that employers highly value.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
When tackling skilled trade roles, employers want to know about your ability to think on your feet. Be ready with examples of how you've solved unexpected problems on the job. This will illustrate your adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits for a full-time position at Mears Group PLC.
