Carpentry student makes lasting impact on placement with MKM Building Supplies

One carpentry student in his final year is building his skills and workplace experience in a fantastic placement with MKM Building Supplies.  

Andy Hill, studying the Level 2 Diploma in Carpentry and who is deaf, has been working with MKM’s team in Canterbury at their branch. 

Andy has been involved in helping to clear old stock, organise supplies, sort out storage spaces and work with the team to take on other tasks whenever they need him.  

He has also quickly gotten used to working in a busy workplace where vehicles are arriving and leaving throughout the day.  

Andy said of his experience at MKM: ”Even though I am deaf, Jack (Branch Manager) has been really nice and given me clear instructions.  

“I’ve loved working with the team and they’re all great.” 

Jo Perry, Communication Learning Support Practitioner, who supports Andy at College, has seen his confidence grow significantly during his time at MKM Building Supplies, in addition to the progress he has made.  

She said: “We started off slowly with tasks, as there were some concerns about communication, but Jack (the manager) has taken all of this in his stride and helped Andy feel comfortable. 

“Andy now works in most areas of the warehouse, and will be able to join the workplace with a good idea of not only how a warehouse works, but also of how to get the communication access he needs.” 

Branch manager, Jack Beasley, has been particularly impressed with Andy’s ability and his pro-active approach to working hard and working efficiently to finish jobs given.  

Jack said about Andy’s work and his impact in the company:  

“Andy has been a pleasure to work with and will do well in his future career. 

“As our warehouse is such a fast-paced environment with vehicles moving in and out, I wasn’t sure of how best to support Andy with the day-to-day operations, but I have learned ways our team can support him to enable him to gain new skills in the workplace. 

“He’s been brilliant and has applied himself to everything he has been asked to do. 

“I wish Andy all the best in whatever he chooses to do in the future.” 

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