NOVEMBER APPRENTICE OF THE MONTH

Third-year apprentice makes a splash with bath cradle

Andrew Hopley, a third-year apprentice from Christchurch, who is becoming a regular winner here, was faced with the challenge of installing a bath, including making the bath cradle.

Andrew had heard from qualified builders how difficult bath cradles can be.

“Most builders I know, their pet-hate is bath cradles! I have to admit, this made me a bit nervous,” says Andrew, who prepared himself by researching how to install a bath and frame-up a cradle.

“I looked it up online via a few different avenues, like YouTube and Skillshare, so when I arrived at work the next day, I felt prepared and ready to get stuck into it.”

It turned out to be worth the effort, because when the boss inspected Andrew’s work, he was rapt! He suggested a couple of little things that could be improved, which Andrew is looking forward to getting right next time.

There are two things that Andrew will walk away with from his bath cradle challenge – try not to stress and do your research.

“A little bit of nervousness is OK, but try not to take it home with you. That said, research and preparation is vital to make a job you haven’t done before that much easier!”