Over the past year, the Ernest Cook Trust has opened doors and created life-changing opportunities for our apprentices and we want to celebrate their incredible journeys.
Kaden Lindersey shares:
“Since coming out of prison at 21, I struggled to find a job or fit back into a social environment. Then I was offered an apprenticeship through the Ernest Cook Trust with the Dry Stone Walling Association. After a day’s on-site interview, I was offered a position with Peter Isherwood — and I’ve never looked back.
This past 12 months has been so rewarding. It’s taught me patience, trust, and given me so much confidence. I’ve learnt so much and developed a real love and appreciation for dry stone walling. After passing my Level 2 in September, I’m now moving forward with the craft and making this my full-time career.
Thank you to the Ernest Cook Trust for this amazing opportunity, to Peter Isherwood for his patience and guidance, and to the Dry Stone Walling Association for all their support.”
Harlee Holt adds:
“I had a one-year apprenticeship under the Ernest Cook Trust with master craftsman Carl Watson, who taught me key skills, both in walling and in life. An apprenticeship gives you hands-on experience you don’t get with other jobs, and it’s allowed me to build a career in as little as 12 months. I’ve really enjoyed my apprenticeship and progressing through the levels in dry stone walling.”
A huge congratulations to Kaden and Harlee for everything they have achieved, including their Lantra Level 2 in dry stone walling, and an enormous thank you to the Ernest Cook Trust and our Master Craftsmen, Peter Isherwood and Carl Watson, along with the wider Dry Stone Walling Association community for helping shape the next generation of Wallers.