Callum gained his apprenticeship with Scottish Leather Group after responding to an advert at his local job centre. Although he had a brother working at the nearby tannery, he had little idea of what was involved. Having now worked through the whole manufacturing process, he admits to being surprised by the complexity and that he “didn’t know how much went into making a fine piece of leather”.

He left school with a number of qualifications and chose not to go to university as he wanted something more hands-on, with responsibility and that would be a stepping stone to a career. He had previously worked as a labourer, in a supermarket, a laundry and a clothes shop but finds his current role much involved and stimulating.

As part of his apprentice training, he is currently working in laboratories at the tannery, carrying out chemical tests to ensure the quality of the product. He has also been involved in process research development, the technical aspects of which were intellectually demanding. However, he enjoyed the challenge and the additional responsibility. His apprenticeship also includes a vocational qualification and a development of ‘soft’ skills, such as presenting and team building. Throughout his apprenticeship, he has enjoyed the responsibility he has been given and being treated, not as an apprentice, but as part of the team.

Callum says that he is proud of his job and happy to say he makes leather. He has also recommended the apprenticeship to his friends. As he say, “I enjoy waking up for work”.