Celebrating National Apprenticeship Week: Growing our future talent

Our commitment to career growth 

One of the best examples of what’s possible through learning and development at Thrive is Daryl Hull, who started with us as a multi-trade operative apprentice in 2012 and has worked his way up to become a Repairs Supervisor. His journey shows that with the right support and ambition, there’s no limit to what you can achieve here. 

“Joining Thrive as a multi‑trade apprentice marked the start of a 13‑year journey. At the time, I was studying to become a plasterer but struggling to find an apprenticeship, all while feeling the pressure of supporting my partner and new-born son.

When I saw the Thrive apprenticeship advertised, I took a chance and it paid off. After completing my two‑year apprenticeship, I progressed to a multi‑trade improver role while continuing to develop my plumbing and carpentry skills at college.

From there, I stepped into a full multi‑trade position and later, successfully moved into the role of a Repairs Supervisor. Thrive has supported me every step of the way, from my days on the tools to my transition into an office‑based role, and I’m incredibly grateful for the network around me.

Apprenticeships give young people the opportunity to learn, grow, and build a career alongside experienced professionals. I’d recommend one to anyone as it’s the perfect way to gain hands‑on experience while achieving the qualifications needed to succeed in your chosen industry”. 

Hear from one of our newer apprentices 

As well as celebrating long‑term success stories like Daryl’s, we’re proud to recognise the journeys that are just beginning. One of our newest apprentices is Dami, who recently joined the People & Culture team and will soon be starting a CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management. Her apprenticeship will cover key areas such as employee relations, organisational culture, wellbeing, and employment law, learning that will directly complement her day‑to‑day work at Thrive. 

For Dami, choosing where to complete an apprenticeship was about finding the right environment, one that felt positive, inclusive, and supportive. Reflecting on what brought her to Thrive, she said: 

“I chose Thrive Homes because it felt like a place where people genuinely care about one another. From the beginning, it felt like a supportive and welcoming place to learn and grow. It was important for me to be part of an organisation that truly values its people and creates a positive, inclusive working environment.” 

Support also played a role in what Dami hoped to gain from an apprenticeship. She wanted the chance to learn by doing, feel confident asking questions, and build her skills with the guidance of an encouraging team: 

“What matters most to me is feeling supported while I learn. I value an apprenticeship where I’m able to gain real‑life experience, ask questions comfortably, and grow. Having a team that’s encouraging and takes the time to support my development has made a big difference to how confident and motivated I feel.” 

Six months into the role, the experience has already been hugely positive: 

“It’s been a really positive experience so far. I’ve been able to get involved in lots of different People & Culture tasks, which has helped me learn and develop new skills. Everyone has been very supportive and approachable, which has made settling into the role much easier and more enjoyable.”