16 July 2025

At Quartzelec, we believe apprenticeships are about more than gaining qualifications — they’re about shaping confident, capable individuals who will go on to make a lasting impact in not only for the business but for the industry. That’s why our approach to development extends far beyond the workplace, which includes our recent #Apprentice Residential at #Brathay in the Lake District.

Located on a private 360-acre estate overlooking Lake Windermere, Brathay offers the perfect environment for learning and reflection. With its historic manor house, purpose-built facilities, high ropes, climbing walls, and raft-building areas, it provided the ideal setting for challenge, growth and connection.

This year 31 apprentices from across the business came together for four days of personal and professional development in a setting designed to challenge, inspire and connect. Organised by Mel Brown, HR Business Partner, Leadership & Development, and accompanied by Jack Stevens, SHEQ Advisor, Mark Gooch, Contracts Manager; Danny Willis, Operations Manager, Angela Strange, HV Maintenance Manager and Mike Dickinson, Contracts Manager, the residential focused on building core behaviours that underpin success — collaboration, resilience, leadership, communication, and self-awareness.

With a packed schedule that included team challenges, high-rope courses, journey days, and reflection sessions, our apprentices were pushed outside their comfort zones — and came away more confident, connected, and inspired than ever. These experiences weren’t just about physical activity — they were about discovering how to manage setbacks, lead others, work effectively in teams, and reflect on their personal development in a meaningful way.

The Brathay experience also gave apprentices the chance to forge valuable relationships across the business, gain insights from experienced #mentors, and develop a deeper understanding of how their personal growth contributes to the wider success of Quartzelec. For many, it marked a turning point — a moment of clarity about their own potential and how they want to shape their future careers.

“Everyone took something valuable away from the experience — especially the apprentices. I’m really looking forward to watching these young people continue to grow and develop in their roles at Quartzelec”, stated Mark Gooch, Contracts Manager.

This residential is just one example of how we nurture growth, support development, and equip our apprentices with the tools to thrive in the modern workplace. Whether on-site, in the classroom, or out in the hills of the Lake District, we’re committed to providing the kind of experiences that develop well-rounded, skilled, and future-ready professionals.

“It’s all part of our commitment to investing in people”. confirmed Mel Brown, HR Business Partner, Leadership and Development. “Our apprentices are the future of Quartzelec, and giving them these kinds of opportunities is essential for long-term success – for them and for us”,

We are proud of what our apprentices achieved at Brathay and even more excited about what’s ahead as they continue their journey with us.

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