By Mark Speight
Building My Career from the Ground Up
I’ve been in the construction industry since leaving school. I started out as a full-time bricklaying student in South Yorkshire before landing an apprenticeship in plastering at 17. Once I qualified, I continued working with the same company as a self-employed contractor until 2007, when I decided to set up my own business, specialising in rendering.
In 2012, I began teaching part-time at Barnsley College, supporting 16–19-year-old full-time learners. I really enjoyed that experience, but I had to step away to focus on my growing business and the apprentices I had taken on. That was my first real taste of teaching—and I knew I’d return to it eventually.
Making the Move into Education
After a few more years of running my own business, I found myself getting a bit bored. While working for myself had its benefits, it also took a toll on my time and work/life balance. That was the real turning point. I was ready for something new, something that would let me use my experience differently.
Support That Makes a Difference
When I joined Leeds College of Building, the support was there from the start. The college put me through my teaching qualification and has continued to back me throughout my time here. There’s always someone around to offer advice or lend a hand. It makes a real difference when you’re transitioning from industry to education.
Gaining the Right Qualifications
To get started in teaching, all I needed was my full Level 3 qualification in plastering. Since joining the college, I’ve also completed my Assessor’s Award, Certificate in Education, and IQA units. The college supported me by giving me the time I needed to complete the theory elements, which made balancing study and work much easier.
What Surprised Me About Teaching
Honestly, I didn’t expect to learn so much myself. Coming into teaching from the trades can be daunting at first, but I’ve picked up so many new skills along the way—things I never imagined I’d be doing.
“There’s always someone around to offer advice or lend a hand”
The Best Part of the Job
Without a doubt, the students. I love spending time with them, whether that’s in the workshop, in the classroom, or out on enrichment activities. I also enjoy continuing to learn and grow myself, but it’s the day-to-day interactions that really make this job rewarding.
Bringing Industry Experience into the Classroom
I was 16 once, trying to find my feet in a trade. It’s tough starting out, and I think having that lived experience helps me relate to students. I try to be patient and create extra tasks and situations that aren’t strictly part of the curriculum but will give students broader skills for their future careers.
Why You Should Consider Teaching
If you’re in the construction industry and thinking about making the move I would recommend just doing it. It’s such a rewarding career. You get to pass on your knowledge, see students develop, and enjoy a much better work-life balance.
A Better Balance and Lifestyle
Since switching careers, I’ve got so much more time. No more evenings spent pricing jobs or sorting invoices, I can actually enjoy my downtime.
Thinking of Applying? Here’s My Advice
If you’re already thinking about a career change, that’s the biggest step. From there, everything else, the training, the qualifications, the support, is something the college will guide you through. You won’t be doing it alone.
