Jess Crook is working as a bricklaying apprentice at Barratt Homes Harbour Place in Bedhampton. Since starting on the developer’s scheme, she has won two Apprentice of the Quarter awards, the Divisional Apprentice of the Year award, the Regional Winner of the Year, and the National Apprentice of the Year building a strong career in construction despite a challenging start to life.
The inspiring 22-year-old has for nearly two years risen above adversity, to progress her successful career in the building industry. Jess is proving how important it is for companies like Barratt Homes to invest in and empower individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Jess was born three months premature and was in and out of hospital as a child, and, while at school, she struggled with her concentration, which led to poor attendance. Determined to make something of herself she worked hard to pass her GCSEs then going on to study bricklaying at college - which is how she found out about Barratt’s apprenticeship scheme.
She said: “I had lots of visits to hospital when I was younger, which meant I fell behind and often felt like the odd one out at school. I also struggled in an academic setting, but I was determined to pass my exams and go on to college. Barratt’s apprenticeship scheme has been perfect for me. I’m learning new skills every day and I’m enjoying every second.”
Since starting with the developer, Jess has proven that, with the right support, guidance, and opportunity, anyone can achieve their dreams and reach their full potential. Excelling in her apprenticeship role, the young builder has already passed her level 2 building certificate and has been offered work with two of Barratt Homes’ subcontractors after she completes her training.
Anthony Dimmick, Barratt Homes Community Liaison Officer, said: “Jess has shown remarkable resilience, dedication, and a true passion for bricklaying.
“Her hard work, determination, and positive attitude have meant that she’s consistently exceeding expectations and demonstrating exceptional skills and craftsmanship. Jess is a true inspiration and a shining example of what can be achieved if you put your mind to it.”
As part of her ongoing commitment towards her personal and career development, Jess has also taken part in a “Barratt Heroes” employee volunteering programme, choosing to volunteer for Barratt Homes’ partnered charity, the Tall Ships Youth Trust. She joined a volunteer voyage crew to work and live in a unique, physically, and mentally challenging environment onboard the charity’s iconic 72ft Challenger yacht.
Tall Ships Youth Trust helps young people aged 12-25 (many of which come from disadvantaged backgrounds), redefine their horizons at sea. It has worked with Barratt for the last four years and aims to support crew members in developing the skills required for employment such as team building, resilience, and leadership. Finding her experience onboard particularly useful in honing her communication and leadership skills, Jess said she became more aware of not just her own, but everyone’s strengths and weaknesses throughout the week – a vital part of working as part of a team.
She said: “Tall Ships Youth Trust is providing a wonderful service to young people in the local area, and it’s been life changing for me and my career. Without this opportunity, I wouldn’t be where I am today, and I’d like to thank both Barratt Homes and TSYT for their support.”
Barratt Homes work in tandem with the communities in which it’s building, to offer a series of apprenticeships to young people in the area.