At 21CBS, we’re committed to creating opportunities for young people to grow, succeed, and contribute to the construction industry.
Apprenticeships are a vital part of our company, helping us train talented individuals while ensuring the future of our workforce.
This August, we were delighted to welcome Jack Clarke as a carpentry apprentice. Jack joins three site-based and two office-based apprentices who are gaining hands-on experience and learning their trades under the guidance of experienced professionals.
Over the next few years, Jack will gain practical experience on-site, supported by our structured training programme and a team dedicated to helping him succeed.
At 21CBS, we view apprenticeships as vital foundations for long-term careers.
Since our founding in 2001, we’ve prioritised apprenticeships as a key part of our business. More than a third of our current workforce started with us as apprentices, and many have risen to senior roles. Some of our longest-serving team members—spanning over a decade—began their careers in this way, and their expertise is now invaluable in mentoring the next generation.
We’re passionate about providing apprentices with high-quality training and the support they need to excel. Every apprentice trains with our site operatives and engineers, who are members of the Construction Skills Certification Scheme and are trained and qualified within their specialist field.
This commitment to professional development has even earned us recognition, including On Site Bristol’s Small Employer of the Year.
As a main contractor, we specialise in a variety of construction projects, including new builds, refurbishments, fit-outs, and maintenance. Apprentices at 21CBS are exposed to a wide range of experiences, learning diverse skills that set them up for success.
Apprentices benefit from:
On-the-job Training: Practical skills development under the guidance of experienced mentors.
College Education: Complementary classroom learning to gain recognised qualifications.
Mentorship: A supportive team dedicated to their growth and success.
From carpentry and painting to project management and electrical work, apprentices are involved in meaningful projects from day one, ensuring no two days are ever the same.
Every year, young people face difficult choices about what to do about their futures. And while university is often seen as the default choice after school, it isn't necessarily the right path for everyone.
Apprenticeships are becoming more and more popular, offering young people hands-on learning and excellent future employment prospects. No tuition fees or student loans are necessary. In fact, apprentices can earn as they learn without the fear of debts mounting before becoming qualified.
An apprenticeship at 21CBS provides young people with the tools to build rewarding careers in construction. By the time apprentices finish their training, they’ve gained:
Industry-recognised qualifications.
Hands-on experience that prepares them for real-world challenges.
Skills that set them apart in a competitive job market.
Our apprenticeships focus on long-term career progression. Many of our former apprentices remain with us, moving into leadership roles and continuing to share their knowledge with new recruits.
Neil Beirne, Electrical Contract Manager
"21CBS gives you the chance to grow. I trained as an apprentice here, and now I’m a manager. They believe in investing in their people, and the opportunities to progress are there if you want them."
Pierce Lydon, Third-Year Electrical Apprentice
"The support I’ve received during my apprenticeship has been incredible. From mentors taking the time to teach me practical skills to managers ensuring I have everything I need, 21CBS has been key to my development."
Mackenzie Paul, First-Year Electrical Apprentice
"It’s clear that 21CBS wants you to succeed. You’re treated with respect and supported at every step, which makes a real difference when you’re starting out."
Through our apprenticeships, we contribute to the development of skilled tradespeople in the South West and beyond.
We work closely with organisations such as On Site Bristol, ensuring young people have access to valuable training opportunities.
By creating these pathways, we help address the skills shortage while providing individuals with a solid foundation for their futures.
An apprenticeship with 21CBS offers a unique opportunity to learn your trade, gain recognised qualifications, and start building your career with a company that values your growth.
To learn more about our apprenticeships, visit our training partner On Site Bristol at www.onsitebristol.co.uk or visit our careers page now.
See how our construction team turns challenges into success stories.
See how we transformed a 1960s office in Bristol into a modern co-working space, blending historical charm with sustainable, flexible design.
Refurbishment of labs at University of Bath, transforming spaces into state-of-the-art wet and dry labs with sustainable, high-spec design.
See how we delivered a high-spec 4th-floor office fit-out, blending modern functionality with bespoke finishes, all within a live, city-centre environment.
See how we transformed an industrial unit at Emerald Park, delivering a full clearance, refurbishment, and modernisation to meet landlord specifications.
See how we transformed the Richmond Building for the University of Bristol, delivering modern, sustainable spaces for the International Foundation Programme within a tight 12-week schedule.