MITSkills Property Maintenance Operative Apprenticeship
December 2025
Property Maintenance Operative
Ben Spraggs
Stonewater Ltd – Reading
“ I chose this apprenticeship because I wanted to transition into trade work after being in a hands-on field previously. I was looking for something new, specifically a role that offered a lot more variety. Now I know that I am constantly moving, constantly learning new things, and constantly being put in situations where I have to think on my feet and develop my own abilities. ”
Learning and Development
“ The most challenging part of the apprenticeship hasn’t been the work itself, but rather adapting to a team-based environment. It was challenging to work alongside people who specialise in different trades and having to take in all the information they tell me and incorporate it into my day-to-day. Luckily, I have great support. My line manager has always offered me assistance, and my tutor here has been helpful. I’ve been going to my tutor after every lesson with questions about liability, structural integrity, and other topics regarding property maintenance. “
Ben Spraggs
On-the-Job Performance
“ Ben has been with us for just over a year now. When he first started, he was a very quiet young lad, but he has grown into our team and has literally come out of his shell. The only challenge we initially faced was simply bringing him out of that quiet space, but now he just thrives with it all. His work quality is really good. We know he’s also performing really well with his studies at MITSkills. The advice we give him, and all apprentices, is to keep asking questions because you learn by your mistakes. “
Ian Bailey – StoneWater Ltd
Reflection
“ Being in this programme has been about more than just the technical skills; it’s about personal growth. I’m constantly being challenged, which helps me develop my own skills and abilities. The biggest takeaway is the experience of having to adapt quickly to different people and different standards. I now understand that success comes from being proactive, asking questions, and being willing to incorporate everything I learn from the experienced people around me. “
Ben Spraggs