Your browser is unsupported and may have security vulnerabilities! Upgrade to a newer browser to experience this site in all it's glory.
Skip to main content
Warrington & Vale Royal College Logo
  • 16-18 Year Olds
  • Adults
  • View all Courses
  • Subject Areas
  • Employers
  • Work with Us
  • About
  • Campus & Facilities
  • College Life
  • Events & News
  • Parents & Carers
  • Contact Us

Meet Don, novice carpenter using the skills learnt on the Level 2 Site Carpentry course to make improvements around his home and allotment

Don Murray chose to study at Warrington & Vale Royal College for a new challenge after retiring in August 2021. After being in the Navy for 9 years and then moving onto the banking, telecom and project management industries, Don wanted to learn something new.

Don Murray

Don has always had an interest in woodwork and decided to take the leap and enrol on to our Level 1 Carpentry & Joinery course. He enjoyed this so much that he progressed on to Level 2 Site Carpentry. The best aspect of studying here, Don says, is the great facilities we have on-site which include a fully kitted-out workshop complete with a wide range of tools and equipment. Don loves the fact that he is learning alongside others of varying ages and they all get along well.

Even though Don is retired, that hasn’t stopped him from learning something new. He has also completed a couple of our art courses as well as managing an allotment. Don enjoys learning new skills and the proper ways of doing things as well as the challenge the exams bring, which he has achieved distinctions in. How inspiring!

On the topic of his tutors, Ben Whitfield, Roy Pierce and Dave Cain, Don has nothing but positive things to say. He tells us that they have great expertise of their subjects, provide guidance whenever needed and they always show willing. Tasks are explained well with clear goals to work towards, something Don is fond of.

In the future, Don hopes to use the skills acquired from these courses for personal gain around his home and at his allotment. He highly recommends the college and the course to others hoping to enhance their skills in the construction industry.

Find out more about our adult Construction Trades courses