A young PAS NW apprentice says she's ‘hit the bullseye’ with her new career path - thanks

to a groundbreaking partnership between PAS and Warrington & Vale Royal College.

Emma Farmington, 17, one of 13 new recruits on PAS’s first cohort of Groundworks Level 2 apprentices, is combining on-site experience with formal training — and earning while she learns.

A proud darts fan and follower of local sensation Luke Littler, Emma says joining the construction industry felt like a winning throw.

"I've always liked practical work and being hands-on. This apprenticeship felt like my shot – and to be here and making an impact feels like I’m winning,” she said.

"I'm learning loads every day on site, and I'm getting paid while I do it. What more could you want?”

Emma's journey into groundworks has been hands-on from day one. Under the tutorlege of experienced groundworks Site Managers Keith Taylor and Danny Atherton, she’s progressing well.

And the 6am pickups haven’t phased her. Working across our Helsby site where we are delivering a full groundworks package for Visty, she's already gained experience in concrete work, kerb bracing, string lining for wedging and kerbs, and levelling concrete for edgings.

She's tried her hand at laying edges and packing them, installing BT infrastructure, plot chipping, and topsoil work.

"She'll have a go at anything," said Keith Taylor, PAS Site Manager at Helsby.

"Emma's got the right attitude – she's eager to learn, asks the right questions, and isn't afraid to get stuck in. That's exactly what you want to see in a young apprentice."

The practical support extends beyond training. Team member Danny Atherton ensures Emma gets to and from her home each day, demonstrating PAS’s commitment to removing barriers that might prevent young people from accessing opportunities.

While Emma's parents don't fully grasp the technical aspects of her new career having transitioned from a Level 2 Brickworks course, they're supportive of her decision – particularly the financial independence it provides.

"I've explained to my mum and dad what I'm doing, but they don't really get it," Emma laughed.

"But they're happy I'm earning money and learning something practical and on the first rung of the ladder. That's what matters to them."

PAS, a leading civil engineering and infrastructure company based in the North West, partnered with Warrington & Vale Royal College to create a structured entry point into the sector for young people — especially those keen to get straight into the world of work.

The apprenticeship scheme is designed to tackle the industry's growing skills gap while offering real career prospects to school-leavers and career-changers.

With 13 apprentices now placed across live sites, the programme is already seeing strong results — with excellent attendance, clear skill progression, and positive mentor feedback.

"We're not just talking about growing talent — we're investing in it," said Dave Andrews, Operations Director at PAS and the Apprenticeship Scheme’s mentor.

“This scheme is about giving young people a genuine pathway into the industry.

For many, university isn't the right route — and that's perfectly fine. We're proving that with the right support, apprenticeships can be truly life-changing. It was for me and many others in our business.”

With support from both site teams and college tutors, Emma and her fellow apprentices are gaining comprehensive skills in excavation, drainage, kerbing, and health and safety — building a strong foundation for future qualifications and full-time careers in groundworks and civil engineering.

"I want to show girls that this isn't just a 'man's job'," Emma added.

"I'm the only female on my site right now, but I hold my own. I'd love to see more women coming into the industry — because we're needed, and we're capable."

PAS has thrown their weight behind Emma and her two site mentors, Keith and

Danny, have said they’d install a dart board in the canteen this month so Emma can practice her arrows and follow in the footsteps of her hero and fellow Warringtonian, Luke ‘The Nuke’ Littler.

Emma, of Stockton Heath, said: "I’ve got a dart board in the garage, but I’m not allowed one in the house. I play at the local pub when I go with my family.”

And what about challenging the Professional Darts Championship’s World Champion to game on site?

“This would be amazing, I don’t think it can happen though.

“I’ve met him once for a few seconds and I’m a massive fan. It would be unbelievable if we could get him to site for a game of 501. I’ve followed his career from the start and he’s on the back of my phone!”

About PAS NW Ltd.

PAS NW Ltd is a leading civil engineering company based in the North West of

England, renowned for delivering high-quality engineering solutions to some of the UK’s largest house builders.

Founded by Paul Sumner in 2009, PAS NW operates across more than a dozen sites in the region, providing services that span the full lifecycle of civil engineering projects, from pre-development planning to project execution.

With a strong commitment to Health & Safety, quality, and on-time delivery, PAS NW has established itself as a trusted partner in the construction industry.

The company's strategic growth is driven by a leadership team with extensive experience in housebuilding and civil engineering, positioning PAS NW as a key player in the industry.