
Show Notes
In this episode, Robin Clevett shares two stories from Carpentry and Joinery centred around apprenticeships. First, apprentice Rhys Mitchell joins us to share his journey into the trade, the lessons he’s learned on site, and what it took to reach the finals of the Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2026 competition. We’ll also hear from Mark Bradshaw, Curriculum Manager at Northampton College, who has won awards for his work Carpentry apprentices. From hands-on projects at Delapré Abbey to the challenges facing apprenticeships today, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and real stories from the trade.
More from The Carpentry Show
Robin Clevett is joined by Quantity Surveyor Tim Philips and time-served carpenter Jason Joyce to explore how the trade has evolved, whether carpenters now need a broader understanding of the entire building, and how unfamiliar materials and systems can complicate even straightforward jobs.
Robin Clevett looks into retirement and is joined by fellow tradespeople Danny Madden, Jack Auletta and Gary Banks to discuss their plans for the future, from financial preparation and business succession, to finding a better work-life balance and exploring new ventures beyond the trade.
Robin answers your questions on the tools he couldn’t work without, whether apprentices rely too heavily on power tools, and why traditional hand skills still matter in modern carpentry.
Robin Clevett looks at the dangers of working in hazardous environments and asks whether tradespeople are sometimes being put in situations where safety is being compromised.
Robin Clevett looks at the growing demand for fitted interiors and asks whether carpenters could use their existing skills to move into a new and potentially lucrative area of the industry.