As the country marks National Apprenticeship Week, 18-year-old Calum Burr talks about the rewards of his first year at Kirkwood Timber Frame as part of the graduate apprenticeship scheme delivered by Robert Gordon University.
He joined the company at its Aberdeen offices at the beginning of September 2024 as a graduate apprentice accountant, working under the direction of finance director, Michael Harper. He works four days a week and has the fifth day dedicated to his studies.
He said: “I chose accountancy and the apprenticeship option because I liked the idea that you could learn whilst gaining experience in real-life business situations, as it makes learning far easier, because you can see why you do certain things within the profession.
“It has been a brilliant experience so far and afforded me the opportunity to further develop personal and professional life skills.”
During his time with Kirkwood Timber Frame, Burr has been able to experience all facets and areas of the business, broadening his understanding of the timber frame industry and how different aspects of the business can impact on financial operations.
In support of his studies, over the course of his apprenticeship hewill be exposed to all operations within a busy finance department, which will help build his understanding and knowledge and allow him to have real life experiences within a finance function.
He added: ‘There are many challenges within the timber industry, not least the ever-changing building policies and regulations. Throughout my time with Kirkwood, I have also learned the need to acknowledge the risk of a supply chain issue that are out of the control of the business, causing the timber prices to increase and how a company can plan to negate this.”
Burr is soon to sit his second set of exams as part of his first year of studies, before returning to university and Kirkwood Timber Frame for year two of the graduate apprenticeship.
Barbara Massie, business development director at Kirkwood Timber Frame, added: “Under the direction of our finance director, Michael Harper, Calum is a valued member of the team and his enthusiasm, willingness to learn and professionalism has been noted by all staff.
“He is not afraid to ask questions to aid his development and has also taken a keen interest in the company and timber frame industry.
“As a business, we are passionate about empowering, supporting, and providing opportunities for trainees, like Calum, but also for existing staff, ensuring that everyone’s contribution is recognised.
“We are confident that Calum will go onto enjoy a successful career and we are delighted to have been able to support him at this early but vital stage of his education and training.”
Photo caption (from left to right): Kirkwood Timber Frame’s graduate apprentice accountant, Calum Burr; finance director, Michael Harper; purchase ledger assistant, Gemma Reid
