APPRENTICE CALUM FOLLOWS DAD AT EMPLOYEE-OWNED CAMPERVAN FIRM
A teenage apprentice at Jerba Campervans, one of Scotland’s most prominent employee-owned firms, is following in his father’s footsteps as he nears the end of his second month on the job.
Calum Winter (16) is the latest recruit at the VW converters team after embarking on a four-year trainee programme.
The Haddington teenager was encouraged by his local high school to apply for the position and explore his passion for carpentry.
The former Knox Academy student left school in May, and is on the cusp of completing the interior furnishing of his first campervan under the stewardship of lead carpenter, Ian Adkins
Calum said: “I’ve always liked working with my hands. I have been riding and repairing trials motorcycles for years, so when I herd about this opportunity I knew this was a great chance for me to pursue this passion further.”
Calum is working alongside his dad, Operations Manager Alan Winter, who has been with the North Berwick-based firm since October 2018.
Calum said: “It’s a bit unusual working with my dad, but he is in a different department from me so I don’t see him often. I finish at 4pm and he finishes at 5pm, so during that hour each day I do my own little projects like making chess boards and chopping boards.”
Dad Alan said: “I am so proud to see him getting on so well at his apprenticeship. I wasn’t aware of him getting the apprenticeship until after he told me. This is such a great opportunity for him to learn and grow in the craft.”
Calum has been assisting lead carpenter Ian in constructing his first van which is due to be completed this week.
Calum added: “It’s a good feeling to know you are building someone’s dream.”
As well as training and supporting younger generations, Jerba Campervans invests in its workers and is committed to sharing its knowledge and company ethos within the wider community, inspiring others to transition to an employee ownership model. Converting Volkswagen T6.1 models, the North Berwick firm is officially recognised by Volkswagen as a Motorhome Qualified Converter, the only firm in Scotland to receive this qualification.
