CARPENTRY and joinery students have been put through their paces by a professional in their field in mock interviews.

Martin Edmondson, owner of Atherton-based MSE Joinery, held mock interviews with Wigan and Leigh College students to give them a taste of what is is like to apply for a job in the industry.

Former Level 3 bench apprentice at the college Martin runs his own domestic joinery and commercial glazing systems business and employs three Wigan and Leigh College apprentices.

As well as asking questions likely to come up in an interview, Martin gave advice to the students about what they should ask and offered feedback on their performances.

Martin said: “We have done a few career talks in schools and colleges and tell the students to come along for mock interviews even though there isn’t currently a job in it for them as it’s a great learning experience to prepare them.”

MSE Joinery’s apprentices Thomas Day and Samantha Kay had mock interviews while they were at school.

They impressed so much that they were offered apprenticeships at the company when they went to college.

Martin added: “For a business, we are very niche especially in glazing so having apprentices is great because we can shape and mould them to suit the trade.

“From day one, they are very hands on which helps to bring out their skill set and are made to feel part of team.”

The college has a strong focus on improving students’ employability skills to increase their chances of getting a job after they finish their courses.

Gareth Hill from the college said: “We’d like to thank MSE for conducting the interviews which were a great success.

"Our learners all benefitted from the experience as it will give them confidence and preparation in applying for jobs or apprenticeships in the future.”