Ryan McCabe is one of Brent Cross Town’s newest team members who joined in May 2022, he was recruited as a Groundworker Apprentice at Galldris.

Ryan is a 19-year-old Barnet local resident who had been attending Barnet and Southgate College where he completed a Level 2 Bricklaying course. Ryan was recruited by our partners Galldris for an 18-month apprenticeship on the Brent Cross Cricklewood regeneration programme and has just passed his six-month probation period.

Ryan’s daily duties include the delivery of the infrastructure and foundations for the Brent Cross Town development, this involves digging the ground, excavating, assisting experienced pavers and pipelayers, and undertaking other duties to support the team. These responsibilities are key for Ryan’s progression towards achieving the apprenticeship qualification.

Ryan tells us: “Since starting my apprenticeship, I have learnt new skills and appreciate the value of working alongside experienced workers who show me new different ways to perform different parts of the job and will build my confidence in this sector”.

One of Ryan’s favourite aspects of the role is having the opportunity to meet people from different cultures, “even if we don’t share the same language, I have made good friends and we enjoy working together” he said.

When discussing the transformation of the area as part of the Brent Cross Cricklewood regeneration project, Ryan explained that at first, he knew little about the programme. However, since working onsite, he says: “I appreciate how important the programme is especially in delivering useful space for the community, like Claremont Park, for example.”

When asked what advice you would give to a new starter or someone thinking to apply for an apprenticeship for the Brent Cross Cricklewood regeneration programme, Ryan advises: “it’s so important to remind yourself to patient at the beginning as it may seem challenging – but eventually you will reach a stage where you are confident in knowing your role and realise that there is a lot of support available from other workers and supervisors.”

If you, or someone you know, is thinking about starting an apprenticeship, no previous experience or qualifications are required, as Galldris and a training provider will offer the candidate the training required as well as supporting them to achieve the CSCS card – a qualification needed to work in the British construction industry

You can find out more about careers across the Brent Cross Cricklewood regeneration programme, from Kickstart jobs to apprenticeships, and to our partnership with Women Into Construction, on our dedicated opportunities page here.