National Apprenticeship Week 2026: Callum Hitchen

This National Apprenticeship Week, we are highlighting the stories of our apprentices to learn more about their journeys and how Caddick is supporting them. Today, we hear from Callum Hitchen, one of our Apprentice Site Managers, who is currently based on our Moya Cole Hospice site in Heald Green, Manchester.

I have been with Caddick for six months now and it has been a great experience so far. I came across Caddick through an open day I attended in Manchester. I would definitely recommend anyone considering their next step to look out for open days or careers fairs to find out more about apprenticeships, as they can open the door to some fantastic opportunities.

Alongside the work I do on site, I am studying for an HNC in Site Management at Wigan and Leigh College, which is a three-year course. The combination of working and studying really helps me connect what I learn in the classroom to the real-life construction work I see on site every day.

One of the things I enjoy most about the industry is that every day on site is different. I am also lucky to work with a great site team who take the time to nurture and support me throughout both my working day and my studies. It is fascinating to see everyone’s responsibilities on site and how each role contributes to the project.

I have also enjoyed the opportunity to work on the Moya Cole Hospice project. It is a meaningful scheme that will make a huge difference to people’s lives. Being part of something that helps the community and knowing that our work is making a positive impact is something I am extremely proud of.

For me, gaining hands-on experience was just as important, if not more important, than earning a qualification. I wanted to follow a route where I could learn while doing, rather than studying theory without putting it into practice. The apprenticeship allows me to gain a qualification while also building real workplace experience, which I believe will give me the skills and confidence to achieve anything I set my mind to in the industry.

My advice would be that if you are thinking about doing an apprenticeship, go for it. Do not be afraid to ask questions, even if they might feel like silly ones. One of the great things I have found about this industry is that people with years of experience are always willing to help.

In the future, I hope to complete my HNC and continue developing my career at Caddick, possibly progressing to a Level 5 course and eventually working towards a Site Manager role.