A schoolboy from Heworth Grange School in Gateshead is building an understanding of the construction world, thanks to a work placement with North-East based brick company W. McGovern & Co.
Dan Wright, 14, joined the firm late last year for two days each week on a work experience programme arranged by an alternative provider called ‘own it-2- own it’. The work experience programme called ‘Own It’ forms part of his overall school schedule as he works towards his GCSE exams in 2018.
W. McGovern & Co. Ltd. is a Gateshead-based brick supply company with over seven decades of experience in the trade, specialising in sourcing bricks for customers that range from construction companies and builders to individuals planning home extensions. The firm has seen significant growth since it was acquired by local businessman George Heydon in 2015.
Dan said: “I am really enjoying my time working at McGovern’s . They have given me lots of different jobs to help out with so far, including sorting out the brick sample boards, helping place some orders and putting together the bricks for orders that are ready to go out to customers. I’d like to work in the building trade when I’m older and this is great experience for those plans.”
Rob Hughes, Managing Director of W. McGovern & Co. Ltd., said: “When we were approached by Richard Davies (MBE) from Own It about taking on an apprentice we jumped at the chance and we’ve been really pleased with how Dan has settled into the team.
“The past year has been a real success for the company, a return to our heritage and reconnections with the local building industry has yielded fantastic sales results. Dan brings a youthful eye and enthusiasm to what we do and I really hope that the experience his gains during his time with McGovern’s will stand him in good stead for his future career plans.”