Comer Homes is celebrating the tenth anniversary of its dedicated apprenticeship programme, which has provided opportunities to a large number of young people throughout the years.

Jennie Femiu (photo), a Project Manager Apprentice, and Alfie McGinley, a trainee accountant, are two great examples still plying their trade and growing with the major developer. They describe their experiences and the benefits of learning on the job.

Jenni joined Comer Homes in 2017, working in the finance department before following her dream of working on some of the most recognisable developments in the UK. She is currently undertaking her APM (Association of Project Management) qualification as a Project Manager Apprentice, which she is due to complete by the end of 2022. In her role, she has been directly involved in the planning stages of several Comer developments.

Discussing her current role, Jenni, said: “My day-to-day role is dependent on the status of where a development is in the process. At the moment I am involved in creating the documents for the design and build contracts for the first phase of our Newland Park scheme in Chalfont St. Giles, which is due to start this summer. Once the contracts have been completed I will then be moving on to assist our procurement team. Every day is different and the role brings up exciting new challenges, which have really helped me to grow and move forward in my career.”



Alfie McGinley began his career at Comer Homes through an apprenticeship role in the finance department. Since his time with the Group, he has completed Level 2,3 & 4 accountancy qualifications and in 2022 he started his ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) apprenticeship. Alfie is currently working his way through two final examinations before receiving his full qualification.

Throughout his career at Comer Homes, Alfie has taken on more responsibilities and enhanced his knowledge and skills base. Once he has received his ACCA qualification he will take on a managerial role and begin working amongst the other senior members of the finance department.

Alfie commented: “Prior to joining Comer Homes I had no qualifications in accountancy. My career in finance began when I was given an opportunity through the Comer Homes apprenticeship scheme. I’ve really enjoyed what the role offers on a day-to-day basis, whilst the ability to earn qualifications in my chosen career have set me on a solid path for the future.

“My responsibilities within the business range from preparing payment runs, project expense reports for ongoing developments, assisting with VAT returns, compiling Year End accounts & management accounts preparation, to the general maintenance of our accounts system, such as ensuring up to date records are maintained and banks are reconciled. It is a really diverse role and one I’ve loved since day one.”

Part of Jenni’s role is to ensure all of the projects she works on are progressing smoothly, with a varied range of developments part of her portfolio: “I was brought on to two of Comer’s Build to Rent schemes, Mast Quay and Whyteleafe, whilst they were already underway, however, I have been involved in supporting Newland Park from the start.

“Newland Park has been the most interesting so far, as I have had more exposure to the process of project managing a project from the very beginning. It is also going to be one of the largest developments we have ever completed, with multiple phases, so it is really exciting to be involved so early on and to play an important part in its growth and success.”

Jenni and Alfie’s journey at Comer Homes are just two examples of the developer’s internship programme, which is now open to applications for various roles across their Newland Park scheme, which is set to see the first phase release of 74 luxurious houses and apartments in Q4 2022.

In addition to the apprenticeship scheme, Comer Home also run regular internal training programmes that have benefitted employees and allowed them to widen their knowledge base and practical skills. Dedicated training has been taken up and utilised across the business from the Sales and Marketing department to the Construction team.

For more information on Comer Homes, its apprenticeship programme or latest projects, contact Tel: 020 8361 2424 or Email: info@thecomergroup.com