I first read about Springboard in the local press. I thought it would be a good opportunity for me to gain a qualification and experience in construction skills and so I enrolled with Springboard on 1st September 2006.
I had a good start, producing some joinery work and learning new painting techniques. I had some personal issues which initially had an effect on my attendance. The staff at Springboard gave me all the help that I needed especially Austin Girdlestone who became my mentor and Sean Davison who is the manager of the construction department at Springboard. They encouraged and pushed me forward and gave me the motivation to believe in myself and that with good attendance, punctuality and hard work I could pass
my qualification.
My attendance did improve and I produced more work.
I have learned new skills in tiling, joinery, paperhanging and a little in plumbing. I have now completed four units in joinery and four units in painting and decorating.
With help from Springboard staff and basic skills tutors I am the first to complete the full construction qualification at Springboard and achieve my level 1 in literacy.
Through new confidence and skills I have gained with Springboard Sunderland I have decided to enroll at
City of Sunderland College to help me gain a higher level in an occupational trade.
…a personal account by Melissa McNaughton, Construction Learner at Springboard Sunderland.
Melissa McNaughton
