Apprenticeships are more than just grades
Employers aren’t just looking for the right grades. Apprenticeships are so much more than that. We caught up with TECC founder, Peter McCallum, who hired Martyn 9 years ago. Starting as a PAT tester, Martyn had already worked his way up to Head Technician and still wanted to progress further to become a fully qualified electrician. With the support of Peter, they decided the best option was a Level 3 Electrical Apprenticeship with New College Swindon. Being able to continue working and earning was a big draw for Martyn as a mature student.
Peter described how the process of upskilling Martyn through an apprenticeship wasn’t just about grades or him gaining a qualification. An apprenticeship is an investment for any employer, so for Peter it was about building the full picture and identifying someone who is passionate, committed and reliable before taking the next step.
Peter said, “Identifying the right person to diligently do the job is crucial. Having a track record of turning up on time, attending work every day and working well as a team, builds a picture. It isn’t just about having the right grades; you must have the right personality too. Once you’ve identified the right personality, the next step would be enrolling onto an apprenticeship.”
By rewarding and investing in a current member of the team, Peter was already confident that he had that right person to fit in with the company’s culture and way of working. For employees like Martyn, seeing their employer make that investment makes them feel valued and is a great way to build a loyal workforce and reduce turnover.
Martyn, who has already completed two years of his four-year apprenticeship, was recognised at the Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce Awards in July 2026 for his commitment to professional growth, adult education and career progression.
Winning the Rising Star of The Year Award, Martyn added, “It’s a wonderful achievement for all the hard work and hours that are put in to be recognised. It’s a really good feeling to be doing something so well and being put forward for the Rising Star award.”
The right person on the right course is crucial to a successful partnership for both the employer and the apprentice, which Peter and Martyn go to show.
Whether you’re an employer looking to upskill or recruit new staff, get in touch to for an informal chat about courses, funding or eligibility by emailing employers@newcollege.ac.uk
