NIAW2023 - Land Based Engineering Apprenticeship Equips Dairy Farmer Matthew for Growing Family Business

The Level 2 and Level 3 Land Based Engineering apprenticeship pathway has given dairy farmer, Matthew Morrow the right step forward in supporting his family’s growing business.

Matthew (25) from Newtownards, who is currently employed at his father’s and uncle’s dairy farm, W T Morrow & Sons, reflected on his journey at SERC’s Lisburn campus on the apprenticeship route, saying:

“After I finished my GCSEs in 2013, I knew that continuing in school wasn’t for me. Growing up, I always loved helping out on the farm and fixing things in the workshop. I had a huge interest in machinery and knew this was something I wanted to study further. I went to an Open Day at SERC and was told about the Level 2 Land Based Engineering Apprenticeship which was about to run for the first time. Immediately, the course content and the placement opportunity really stood out to me, so I applied.”

Matthew continued: “During my Level 2, I secured a placement with my former employer William Graham in Killinchy. I had the opportunity to repair tractors and large machinery, helping to install parts and perform services. I really enjoyed the practical side of learning during my apprenticeship, and it was great to put the theory I learnt in the classroom into real life.”

“After I completed my Level 2, I progressed to the Level 3 apprenticeship. I worked for another employer, Court Engineering based in Newtownards. Whilst there, I was able to work on smaller machinery like lawnmowers and garden equipment by rebuilding engines, fixing components and repairing items brought in by customers. It was great to work alongside James who had a lot of industry experience and who taught me a different scope of skills maintaining smaller machinery.”

Speaking on his experience at the college’s Lisburn campus, Matthew says, “I remember looking forward to having one day out of the week which I spent on campus and where I made many new friends. My tutors at the time, Simon and Philip were always very helpful and attentive with helping my class navigate through theory, and the small class size and relaxed setting made it a great environment to learn in.”

Concluding, Matthew says “I would definitely recommend anyone who enjoys practical work and has an interest in farm and land-based machinery to explore this apprenticeship opportunity. It has given me a fantastic set of skills which I have been able to take into my family’s dairy farm, making sure our everyday operations run smoothly. My knowledge has also enabled me to assist contractors and farmers in my local area who need assistance with their machinery and equipment.”

“Looking forward, I am hoping to one day take full ownership of the farm, and with the experience I have gained at SERC, I believe this will assist me in expanding the business.”

SERC are hosting Have a Go Sessions for potential apprentices 4.30pm to 7.00pm at Lisburn Campus - Monday 6 February; Bangor Campus -Tuesday 7 February; Newtownards Campus - Wednesday 8 February, and Downpatrick Campus - Thursday 9 February. Visit serc.ac.uk/NI-Apprenticeship-Week-2023 to unlock your future #BetterOffAtSERC.