A teenager has embarked on an apprenticeship with hopes of setting up his own carpentry company.

Harry Bentley, aged 17 from St Albans, hopes to make his mark in the housebuilding industry after completing a two-year apprenticeship with Bovis Homes.

The Verulam School student hopes his training will enable him to start his own business after completing his Level Three education.

Harry said: “I chose an apprenticeship because of the hands-on learning while being able to earn a salary.

“Bovis Homes have been great and with my supervisor I've installed doors, stairs, skirting and more.

“I want to own my own business in the future and I would advise others wanting to get involved to go for it and work hard.”

Harry is one of seven youngsters starting their apprenticeship with the Hertfordshire-based housebuilder.

Bovis Homes accepted its biggest ever number of apprentices during the latest intake.

All apprentices went through a trainee induction at the Milton Keynes office, which included health and safety training and team-building exercises.

Roger Morton, performance director at Bovis Homes, said: “We are very excited to welcome our new apprentices and we have high hopes for their future.

“The induction went well with apprentices getting through a spaghetti and marshmallow challenge, they had to build a structure within a set time using the food.

“Apprentices and young people are the future of this industry and we are building more direct relationships with institutions to offer a range of apprenticeships across the board.”

For more information, visit www.bovishomes.co.uk