At Swansea Bay Construction Support Group, we are proud to partner with organisations like Cyfle Building Skills and member companies such as Bouygues UK. Together, we support apprenticeships that nurture talent and build the future of the construction industry. Harrison’s inspiring journey highlights how these pathways can open doors to rewarding careers, showcasing the diverse opportunities construction has to offer.
A brave career change
Harrison’s journey into construction demonstrates that success doesn’t always follow a traditional academic path. Initially, he pursued a sports science degree at Cardiff Metropolitan University—a natural choice for a talented sportsman. However, after completing his first year, Harrison began to reflect on whether he was on the right path.
“I thought to myself, was this the best year for me? Have I enjoyed the course enough to go back and continue onto the second year? And realistically, if I’m not going to use the degree after university, then what am I doing?”
Recognising that university wasn’t the right fit, Harrison decided to explore alternative career options.
Finding his pathway
When he began considering leaving university to explore a career in construction, Harrison confided in a friend who had experienced great success in a degree apprenticeship through Cyfle Building Skills.
“I knew a couple of my friends had gone into apprenticeships, and one went through Cyfle Building Skills. He seemed to be doing really well,” Harrison recalls. “I asked him if he could put me in contact with Cyfle, and from there, the process was fantastic. They quickly helped me get onto a degree apprenticeship, and I was fortunate to secure a placement so late in the year.”
Harrison had always had an interest in engineering and a natural curiosity about construction. Although he’d tried trades courses during school, he hadn’t yet explored the technical side of the industry. The degree apprenticeship offered a perfect balance of academic learning and practical, hands-on experience, giving him the opportunity to thrive.
Thriving with Bouygues UK
Now in his second year, Harrison is excelling in his technical apprenticeship with Bouygues UK, one of our valued member companies. Working on an interesting project in Pentre Awel project, he is currently completing a BTEC Level 3 Diploma in ‘Construction in the Built Environment’. Following this, Harrison will then progress onto a five-year part-time university degree while continuing to work on-site.
“Degree apprenticeships are incredibly flexible. It’s a longer journey for me because I’m studying part-time, but the combination of learning and hands-on work is invaluable.”
At the end of his degree apprenticeship, Harrison will have two qualifications and a wealth of practical knowledge.
Harrison’s role with Bouygues UK has seen him take on significant responsibilities. Over the last few months, he has been managing the soft flooring package for Pentre Awel, overseeing the installation of vinyl flooring in consultation rooms and learning spaces. “I’ve really been putting my head down and getting into the details of this section of the project, from skirting finishes to managing the flooring team on-site. You also have to be constantly aware of things like health and safety and prepared for unexpected challenges—it’s all part of the experience.”
A rewarding career path
For Harrison, the decision to pursue a degree apprenticeship has been life changing. “My experience doing this degree apprenticeship has been ten times better than my time at university. I have a routine now, I get up every day for work, I’m constantly learning something new, and I feel like I’m getting so much out of the day.”
Harrison is also grateful for the support he’s received. “The team at Bouygues UK has been fantastic—they’ve helped me from the start of my placement, and it’s been incredibly enjoyable. Cyfle Building Skills has also been brilliant; their pathway officers check in with me monthly to make sure I’m supported and on track.”
Transferrable skills
What people may fail to realise is that many athletes, like Harrison, possess skills that are perfectly transferable to the construction industry. Teamwork, discipline, problem-solving, and the ability to perform under pressure are all qualities honed through sports. These attributes align closely with the demands of construction, where collaboration, strategic thinking, and adaptability are essential.
Harrison’s athletic background provided a strong foundation for his new career.
Encouraging the future generation
Harrison’s story is proof that it’s never too late to change direction and that apprenticeships can lead to fulfilling and successful careers. He strongly encourages others to consider this route, saying, “I would recommend degree apprenticeships to anyone. It’s such a great way to learn, earn, and build a career you’re passionate about.”
Harrison’s journey showcases how organisations like Cyfle Building Skills and Bouygues UK are shaping the future of construction by nurturing talent and providing opportunities that empower individuals to thrive.