Interviewer: So, Stephen, you’re here today to do your End Point Assessment. But lets start with the basics – How did you get into your NDT Apprenticeship?
Stephen: Honestly, I just kind of fell into it! I was working in customer service at the time, and with everything going on with my personal life, it was really starting to get me down. I knew I needed a change – I wanted to better myself.
Interviewer: So what happened next?
Stephen: My mate said ‘oh there might be a job coming up at my place if you’re interested’. And I waited months and months and months and then all of a sudden he said ’email my boss, there’s an apprenticeship vacancy coming up’. I said I’m 41 years old, I’m not going to get an apprenticeship, and he said ‘no you will seriously, email him’, so I did.
Interviewer: How would you say your mental health has changed since taking the position?
Stephen: Don’t get me wrong, it’s been tough. If I’d done this five years ago and failed, I probably would’ve just walked away. But now, I know I want to better myself – I can see the end goal. Tracey and the team here at Lavenders have really helped put me at ease. Before, I’d be lying awake at night stressing about exams, but today, I felt calm – like a completely different person. And that’s because of you guys. You’ve made a huge difference.
Interviewer: How has the support been from your mentors, the staff at Lavenders, and the team at Pudsey Test & Inspection Ltd?
Stephen: Tracey and Matt have been amazing – they really helped put me at ease. My supervisor’s been honest with me from the start, saying that an apprenticeship is a big commitment, and it really is – it’s a lot of hard work. But they kept pushing me forward and encouraging me.
Interviewer: So you’ve done a full 180?
Stephen: Absolutely. Five years ago, I would’ve given up by now – anxiety’s all I’ve ever really known. But I stuck with it. I went from knowing nothing about Radiography and functional skills to, well, knowing my stuff!
Interviewer: So what would you say to apprentices that might be of the same mindset as you?
Stephen: Just stick with it, and don’t be afraid to ask for help—from the apprenticeship team or your employer. When I didn’t want to sit my English exam, I spoke to my supervisor, Dan, and he talked me round – and now I’ve passed it!
Honestly, just give it a go. What have you got to lose?
Interviewer: That really shows how far you’ve come and what powerful impact the people around you can have on your confidence! I also hear you set up a branch of Andy’s Man Club in your local area?
Tell us about that…
Stephen: Yeah, I set up a branch in Cleckheaton. I’ve been going to Andy’s Man Club for about 8 years now. Sometimes I still go and help out – I even help facilitate the group. But there are times when I just need a break too, and that’s okay. Before setting up the Cleckheaton branch, I went to the Dewsbury one for about 3 years
Interviewer: And do you think that helped you?
Stephen: Oh, massively. It saved my life that place. A hundred percent, without a doubt, it saved my life. It’s not something I need every single week now, but in the past, I did – I needed it every week. Things change, your situation in life changes. And through sheer hard work, I’ve got myself to where I am now. But I’ll always be in their debt. My kids are in their debt too.
Interviewer: So you think Andy’s Man Cub has helped you get to where you are today?
Stephen: Yeah, I really do. The lads there just give you confidence. And now, with my kids growing up, I want to be there for them. They’re my focus.
Interviewer: That’s lovely Stephen. So you’re here today to complete your End Point Assessment – what now?
Stephen: Just carry on and get stuck in, really. I’m taking a break from the academic side for now – I’ve always enjoyed the practical element more. I learn best by watching someone do it, having them show me how. I am interested in learning other methods, especially dye penetrant testing, but not just yet. When I got my final result, I cried. I just need a bit of a breather first.
Through innovative programme design, strong employer collaboration, and commitment to apprentices’ success, Lavender are setting new standards in engineering training. We deliver high-quality, hands-on training each month, including residential courses that provide apprentices with realistic inspection workshops to practice inspections that meet NDT standards.
By working closely with employers, we develop tailored training programmes that align with industry needs. If you’re an employer, we can assist with recruiting new apprentices for our programmes or upskilling your current staff in various NDT methods. For more information, click here.
For apprentices seeking an exciting opportunity to join an NDT company, visit the government website to explore the latest openings for the Level 2 Operator or Level 3 Technologies Technician scheme.