Meet Joel Mortlock: Group Academy Tutor
27 March 2024
Joel began working for Bagnalls in 2014 as an apprentice. After almost ten years of great service, Joel now works within our Apprentice Training Academy as our Group Academy Tutor.
What first attracted you to Bagnalls?
Joel: I was excited about the chance to work with an experienced, on-site team. The fact Bagnalls is a national contractor was also appealing to me, as I knew this would allow me to engage with a wide variety of work.
What did you do before you worked for Bagnalls?
Joel: I was working as a Personal Trainer and Gym Instructor for the Doncaster Culture and Leisure Trust (DCLT). During this time, I was also completing a Foundation Degree in Sports Coaching.
What is your favourite part of your job?
Joel: I currently work in Bagnalls’ Training Academy as the Group Academy Tutor, teaching our talented apprentices how to master the trade. I love seeing the time and dedication that Bagnalls invest in the young adults who want to pursue a career in the painting and decorating industry.
I completed the apprenticeship scheme at Bagnalls, so I have first-hand experience of the company’s caring, compassionate approach when it comes to pushing their apprentices to achieve their full potential.
What is your biggest achievement at Bagnalls?
Joel: I can’t choose just one achievement, so I’ll have to mention two! The first of which is my 2015 PPG Young Painter of the Year win at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham. Without the support of Bagnalls and the Training Academy, I wouldn’t even have had the opportunity to put myself into contention, let alone win!
Secondly, after ten years of service at Bagnalls, I was given the opportunity to become the Group Academy Tutor – helping to train the new generation of talented apprentices. I love being able to give back to the company and teaching younger colleagues everything I have learnt over the years.
Do you have any advice for those considering a career in the painting and decorating industry?
Joel: Completing a job within the painting and decorating industry gives you a real sense of pride. Taking a project on at the beginning, when the building or area is run-down and tired, and putting hours of detailed work into it to achieve a remarkable finish gives you a true sense of achievement. Once you finish the job, you can step back and think: ‘I did that.’
What are the main benefits of doing an apprenticeship?
Joel: The opportunity to learn on the job is a fantastic benefit. During your apprenticeship, you are taught everything you need to know by experienced operatives who have been in the trade for many years. This kind of practical experience is invaluable.
You’ll also earn while you learn – so instead of finishing a university course with masses of debt, you begin your career with money already in the bank!
Another great benefit is the recognised qualification you will receive when you complete your apprenticeship. With Bagnalls, you will also earn a full-time job alongside those you know and have already worked with!
If you’re considering a career within the painting and decorating industry, check out our current vacancies and apply to become a part of the Bagnalls family.