We’re incredibly proud to share a recent achievement that perfectly highlights the calibre of talent and community spirit we cultivate within our apprenticeship programs. At NC Group, we believe in empowering our apprentices with practical, impactful challenges that not only refine their technical skills but also connect them with the rich heritage of our local area.
The story begins with Steve Harrison, our Engineering Apprenticeship Lead, who was approached with a unique request. St. Andrew’s Church in Aycliffe Village, a historical landmark dating back to circa 1074 and even mentioned in the Doomsday Book, needed a spare key. Its original, a relic of centuries past, was showing significant signs of wear. Steve immediately saw an exceptional learning opportunity for one of our rising stars.
He entrusted this intricate task to Robert Hamilton, a second-year Toolmaking apprentice from Ricor North East. This was no ordinary key; its creation demanded an impressive array of traditional hand skills, including meticulous turning and precise welding. Robert dedicated a portion of his day release time and quieter moments at work to this project, demonstrating remarkable commitment to his craft. Adding a poignant personal touch, Robert’s own grandmother is a member of the St. Andrew’s congregation.
The project culminated last week when Robert met with David Blair, the church warden. After some final adjustments, the new key slid perfectly into the ancient lock, flawlessly opening and securing the church door. This wasn’t just a successful functional test; it was the formal handover of a truly phenomenal piece of work, a testament to Robert’s exceptional skill.
The level of craftsmanship required to produce such a complex key almost entirely by hand cannot be overstated. It stands as a powerful demonstration of the intricate abilities Robert has developed during his apprenticeship. We extend our immense credit and congratulations to Robert for his outstanding contribution. His work not only provides a vital spare key for a cherished local landmark but also serves as an inspiring example of how our apprentices meaningfully contribute to the community while mastering their trade.