New apprentice joins local construction firm

Ellie Clarke from Newbury has become the latest apprentice to join the expanding Helix team. 

Ellie, aged 16, has joined the team as a business administration apprentice, bringing skills in digital media and an enthusiasm to learn all about the construction business. 

Eager to enter the world of work while gaining a qualification, Ellie decided an apprenticeship would be perfect for her following finishing school. She was offered an interview with construction and development firm Helix, also based in Newbury and after impressing the team, Ellie was offered the role. 

She is completing an 18-month placement, which will see her learn about all areas of the business including design, buying, admin and finance, alongside studying for a formal qualification in A Level Business Studies.

Ellie also hopes to help with the company’s digital marketing and social media, something she is considering pursuing in her future career. 

new apprentice joins HelixEllie said: “I’m enjoying learning all about what Helix do and am hoping I’ll be able to help them with lots of different things over the course of my apprenticeship. Everyone has been really welcoming and friendly and I’ve been given lots of tasks and projects to get started on.”

Ellie’s appointment follows closely on from the success of Helix’s last apprentice, Sinead Anns-Null, who joined the team in 2021 and passed her apprenticeship exams with flying colours. 

At the end of 2022, Helix also welcomed a further four new employees to join their growing team, including two site managers to help with the company’s growing roster of contracts.

Managing Director Nic Davies said: “We’re very happy to welcome Ellie, as well as our other new staff members, to the Helix team. It’s a great time to join the business as we continue to grow and take on more projects.”

“We have offered apprenticeships since Helix was formed. These schemes not only give young people access to careers in the construction industry, but also provide transferable skills and a chance to gain confidence in the world of work. Ellie will be a great addition to the team and has a lot to offer us in terms of her digital skills and enthusiasm for learning.” 

Helix was founded in 2017 and works on housing developments throughout London, the Thames Valley and wider South East.