A young Glasgow couple gained more than a job when they joined a modern apprenticeship programme with the Wheatley Group - in fact, they fell in love and got married after meeting in work.
Ashleigh and Chris Bilsland found themselves on the same programme with the housing organisation, two of more than 300 apprentices taken on since 2009.
And while they can’t guarantee you’ll have the same experience if you sign up, their story is sure to brighten up your Valentine’s Day.
The pair, both 24 and living in Cambuslang, joined Wheatley on the programme in 2012, and romance blossomed a year later when they were both chosen to represent GHA at a Modern Apprentice award ceremony.
Chris and Ashleigh were married last year, after Chris proposed during a trip to New York.
Ashleigh explained: “We both applied for the apprenticeship as we both had friends who already worked for the business, and they told us about the opportunities and skills that an apprenticeship with Wheatley could offer.
“I was at a stage in my life when I didn’t really know what I wanted to do. I had been to college and studied travel previously. An apprenticeship at Wheatley gave me a great opportunity for working, learning and earning – and I met my soulmate as well.”
Chris started out on the environmental team, but was offered an apprenticeship in business admin, before working in the local housing office - Ashleigh, meanwhile, joined the team that help homeless people find safe, secure accommodation.
The couple both work in the customer service centre now, although they’re planning to take a year’s sabbatical together and travel the world.
Ashleigh added: “We are super grateful for the opportunity that the Wheatley Group have given us. We love working there and we hope to go further within the business when we come back from our travels.
“We would recommend the apprenticeship to anyone – it is a great opportunity to grow your skills, and get a great start in your career.”
Wheatley Foundation Director Lorraine McLaren said: “While we can’t promise that everyone who joins us on a Modern Apprenticeship will find love, we can definitely offer a great opportunity to young people who want to take their first steps on the career ladder.
“We are now recruiting for around 50 Modern Apprentices in a range of roles from environmental work to business support, including legal, communications finance and across Wheatley Group subsidiary organisations.
“You’ll get the chance to earn a real wage, get help with travel expenses and even a discount on driving lessons. You don’t need any formal qualifications to apply so if you are interested, we would love to hear from you.”
If you’re a young person interested in applying for a modern apprenticeship then email your details to ma@wheatley-group.com by March 30.
