Former teacher Becky is building a new career

Becky Willis says she become fed up with punishing paperwork and the behaviour of pupils while teaching at primary schools and decided to construct a new career with building firm Tyneside Home Improvements (THI).

The 31-year-old has gone from strength the male dominated industry – and her work helping to improve mental health and mentoring younger employees, saw her nominated in the Degree Apprentice of the Year category in the North East Apprenticeship Awards.

Becky said: "My decision to join THI has completely transformed my life.

"I was passionate about teaching but it had got to the point where I had no work, life balance.”

She added: "Before teaching in the UK, I spent five years working at international schools in the Middle East and returning home was a huge culture shock.

"I found the kids weren't as interested in learning, and I was working much harder, for less money.

"Many of my skills were transferable and it is very rewarding working closely with young apprentices.”

THI – which until recently was based in Jarrow but has now moved to Gateshead, was founded 18 years ago by Kevin Kerr, who then worked from his kitchen table and had just one member of staff.

The company is now recognised as an industry leader, has built its reputation on the installation of impressive conservatories, orangeries and garage conversions and operates across Tyne and Wear, Northumberland, Durham and Teesside.

Becky was unsure of her next career move when she stopped teaching – until she spent a few days helping out in the THI office, where her partner works as a plasterer.

Commercial director Chris Green suggested she consider an apprenticeship with THI.

She is now in the process of completing a degree apprenticeship in human resource management, with a focus on learning development.

Becky is now writing her dissertation on the challenges apprentices face in the workplace, and hopes to make improvements to the scheme at THI as a result of her research.

She added: "During my research, I have found that there can be a lack of communication between the employer and the education provider.

"The college often assume topics get covered in the workplace, and vice versa.

"I am going to make sure that doesn't happen at THI."

Becky's job title is human resource business partner, but her role is all encompassing, involving updating and implementing policies and introducing strategies to reduce accidents in THI's fleet of vans – which she is now in charge of.

More recently, Becky became a qualified mental health first aider, and is on hand to talk to staff about any emotional problems they might be experiencing.

She said: "There is a stigma among blokes, when it comes to mental health and so I was surprised how many employees have wanted to chat.”

Becky is one of six women among THI’s 28 staff and the firm also employs around 40 to 50 contractors.

Commercial director Chris Green said: "Becky’s drive, curiosity, and commitment to making a difference has been remarkable and her achievements reflect both her capability but genuine passion for improving the industry.

"Teaching's loss, is definitely our gain."