NDT apprentice success for Tru-Tec NDT
15/06/2026
NDT apprentice Bradley Nortcliffe of Tru-Tec NDT has successfully completed his end-point assessment, achieving a grade distinction and becoming the first apprentice enrolled on Lavender International’s scheme to qualify in alternating current field measurement (ACFM).Bradley achieved an overall score of over 90% in his end-point assessment, alongside distinctions across multiple methods, marking a significant milestone both for his career and for apprenticeship progression within Lavender International.
Bradley’s journey through the apprenticeship has been defined by hands-on experience, technical development and a growing understanding of the real-world responsibility that comes with working in NDT. From inspecting components destined for critical infrastructure to ensuring safety in high-risk environments, the role demands both precision and accountability.
Reflecting on his experience, Bradley described the apprenticeship as ‘challenging, rewarding and interesting’, highlighting the balance between practical work and academic learning. One of the most defining moments came early in his training, when he narrowly failed a key ultrasonic testing (UT) assessment due to a minor but critical error.
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| Bradley Nortcliffe has become the first apprentice on the Lavender International apprenticeship scheme to qualify in ACFM |
“I questioned myself at the time and missed something I had actually spotted. It was a small mistake, but it stuck with me. Passing it the second time felt like a real achievement and made me more confident in trusting my judgement,” said Bradley.
That experience, he explained, has shaped how he approaches inspections today, reinforcing the importance of attention to detail and having confidence in decision-making.
As the first apprentice with Lavender International to undertake ACFM, Bradley chose to specialise in ACFM due to its increasing relevance in industry projects and its value to Tru-Tec NDT. His achievement reflects both personal ambition and alignment with operational needs.
Despite the challenges of balancing workplace responsibilities with study and assessment requirements, particularly within a small, fast-paced company environment, Bradley remained self-motivated and committed throughout. His success demonstrates the impact of determination, as well as the importance of structured support and dedicated learning time during apprenticeships.
Looking ahead, Bradley is keen to continue developing his skill set, with ambitions to expand into additional advanced methods such as eddy current testing, further strengthening both his own career prospects and the technical capability of Tru-Tec NDT.
When asked what advice he would give to others considering an apprenticeship, his response was clear: “Do it. You are gaining real-world experience, learning valuable skills and getting paid at the same time, without taking on debt. By the end of it, you have got qualifications and experience behind you. It is a win-win.”
Bradley’s success story highlights the value of apprenticeships as a powerful and practical route into skilled careers, particularly in specialist industries such as NDT, where experience, precision and responsibility are critical.
From learning technical skills to understanding the real responsibility behind NDT, Bradley’s journey reflects significant personal and professional growth.
“You start out just thinking it is an apprenticeship,” he said. “But by the end, you realise the importance of what you are doing, and that stays with you.”
Bradley’s apprenticeship tutor, Robert Whiston, commented: “I would just like to say that as well as him being our first ever apprentice to sign up with Lavender International, he has proved to be 100% committed to the course, going over and above to progress his understanding of NDT, completing two complex methods, UT and ACFM, as well as magnetic particle inspection (MPI) outside of the apprenticeship at the same time.
“I have always found Brad to be punctual, polite and hardworking; he has put lots of effort and extra time in to ensure his apprenticeship was completed timely with great results around his busy workload. Bradley is also meticulous, ensuring all his work is of a high standard. Just some of the reasons why I awarded him the Tutor’s Choice Award 2025!”
Tru-Tec NDT provides specialist non-destructive testing services across a range of industries, supporting safety, compliance and quality through advanced inspection techniques.
www.lavender-ndt.com
www.trutecndt.co.uk
