Carpenter Gives Leg Up to Little Brother

When it came time to employ his first apprentice, Jordan didn’t need to look any further than his own backyard, extending a hand to his little brother, Elija.

Elija, who has the condition Tourette Syndrome, was not enjoying school and looked like he might drop out. Recognising that an apprenticeship could be just the thing to help Elija get a head start in the workforce, Jordan offered his little brother a role in his carpentry business.

Although Jordan had started his own career as an apprentice, he knew he needed help to make sure everything was set up correctly for Elija. He approached The Apprenticeship Community and was connected with Industry Training Consultant, Jade.

Jade walked Jordan through the whole apprenticeship sign-up process and Jordan’s obligations as an employer of an apprentice. She then met with Jordan and Elija to explain the training contract obligations, outline the TAFE requirements, and complete the final contract paperwork. Elija started his apprenticeship in early August, just a few short weeks after Jordan engaged The Apprenticeship Community.

But the support didn’t stop there. Shortly after he commenced working, Elija was visited by an Apprenticeship Community Mentor, who will be on hand to help Elija manage any personal issues that may arise during the course of his study. The Apprenticeship Community team will also remain in contact with Jordan and Elijah, to assist with the Trade Support Loan, employer incentives and to provide ongoing support as needed.

Just like his older brother, Elija loves working with his hands and is thoroughly enjoying his first taste of carpentry. Making the decision to leave school at just 15 was not an easy one, but showed a maturity that Elija continues to display in his work. His family are delighted that the two young men are working together and that Jordan is stepping up to be a role model for his younger brother. They both look set for long and productive trade careers.