When Brandon Lees left school he was determined to get a full time job as a lifeguard.
He was already working part time at the Westhill swimming pool when he heard about the opportunity to train as an apprentice with the Aberdeen Sport Village.
He applied for the role and almost three years later has fully qualified in his dream role.
The 20-year-old explained how it all came about.
He said: “I applied for an apprenticeship at Aberdeen Sports Village and really hoped I would get it.
“I had worked as a lifeguard during my time at school and was looking for full time employment.
“I left Westhill Academy after fifth year as I wasn’t enjoying it.
“I started in February 2014 after leaving school the previous December.
“I’ve finished the apprenticeship three months ago but I’m always looking for ways to improve.
Mr Lees said he doesn’t often have to act in an emergency but said he is always prepared for any scenario.
He said: “On a day to day basis I’m involved in customer service, health and safety and maintaining equipment.
“It’s very rare that you have to get in the pool as a lifeguard but we’re always ready in case an accident happens.
He added: “I would definitely recommend the apprenticeship to others, it’s really helped me learn new things and develop my skills.”
Danny Costello, the manager of the Aquatics Centre, said Mr Lees had “grown in confidence” during his apprenticeship.
He said: “We run several types of apprenticeships in customer service, management and leadership, business administration, personal training and operational services.
“Brandon’s was a new type of apprentice for us as it was specifically for our industry.
“I’ve seen Brandon grow in confidence during his time here and he’s a key part of the team.
He went on to say: “We’ll be taking on more apprentices soon and it’s a great thing for young people to be involved with as 80% of our staff are under the age of 30.
He also revealed most people who start an apprenticeship at Aberdeen Sport Village stay on in the role.
He said: “Most of the apprentices we take on stay on with us once their training is done as they see that we have invested in their future.”
