First Day on Site?
Starting your apprenticeship this September? You’re not alone! Thousands of young, aspiring tradies will be stepping onto site and hitting the tools for the first time this year, and we understand that the first day can feel like a big one.
While it’s normal to feel a bit out of your depth, rocking up in the right gear can seriously help you feel more confident and ready to get stuck in. You don’t need to have everything sorted straight away, just a few key bits, not only to keep you safe and comfortable, but also looking like you know what you’re doing (even if you’re still figuring it all out!)
So don’t stress, Hollands have got your apprentice-approved essentials covered right here, so you can take the worry of workwear off your mind and concentrate on the job at hand.
Starting With the Basics
Every trade’s a bit different; what a plumber needs on site might not be the same as a sparkie or a joiner, and wondering if you have everything you need is normal. The truth is, you’ll pick up tips, skills and knowledge on the job, along with tools of the trade- and that includes workwear.
The main thing is to have the basics covered. No matter what you’re training for, there are a few essentials every apprentice should have in their kit from day one. Think of it as your starter pack, the bread and butter of what to wear on site, and gear that’ll get you through most jobs without a hitch.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Work Trousers – Go for something tough but flexible. You want to be comfortable but practical, so extra points for reinforced seams and stress points, like kneepads (your knees will thank you later) and handy pockets for storage.
- Safety Boots – Safety comes first, and steel or composite toe caps are a must. Make sure they’ve got a decent grip too, as rainy days and smooth surfaces don’t mix.
- Hi-Vis Gear – Again, safety is paramount, and most sites won’t let you on without a hi-vis. A vest does the trick in warm weather, or go for a hi-vis jacket when things turn chilly (an extra layer is always welcome in winter!)
- Weather Protection –As we all know, the UK weather loves to keep us on our toes, so have a waterproof or a good softshell jacket to hand to stay dry and warm.
- Base Layers – For a long day's work, comfort is key. Look for breathable, moisture-wicking tops that help regulate your body temperature, so you don’t go from sweaty to freezing in just five minutes.
Our Apprentice-Approved Workwear Picks
Not sure where to start? Don’t worry- remember that starter kit for trades we mentioned? Well, we’ve rounded up a go-to guide of apprentice-ready picks all in one place, and here's what made the cut:
TuffStuff Pro Work Trousers
Starting with those trusty trousers, the TuffStuff Pro Work Trousers ticks all the boxes. Built tough with reinforced seams and loaded with handy pockets for all your essentials, whether plumbing, wiring, building, or doing a bit of everything, these trousers can handle any job and keep you moving.
They’re also knee pad compatible, and the best part- they’re an affordable price, meaning you don’t have to blow a hole in your budget!
Caterpillar Holton S3 Safety Boot
A long day on the job, the last thing you want is sore feet to slow you down. Boots are an investment, and the Caterpillar Holton S3 Safety Boots are a boot you can trust from day one.
A reliable all-rounder with a steel toe cap, slip-resistant grip, puncture-resistant sole, and speed-lacing hooks (a lifesaver when you’re running late), they’re a good price, a great build, and ready for whatever trade you’re jumping into. They also come in a few smart colour options if you want to keep things tidy with your kit, too.
Fort Hi-Vis Waterproof Bomber Jacket
We’re not just talking hi-vis, we’re talking properly waterproof and windproof with the Fort Hi-Vis Waterproof Bomber Jacket. Two problems solved in one: keep warm and, as it meets EN471 Class 3 standards, you’re site-safe too.
The shorter length and elasticated waist provide loads of flexibility (no riding up when you’re bending or reaching), and the inside pockets are handy for keeping your phone or other essentials safe- if you’re heading into construction, roadworks, or just starting before sunrise, this one’s a no-brainer.
TuffStuff Hale Jacket
When the weather turns, a lightweight, breathable waterproof jacket like the TuffStuff Hale Jacket has your back.
Made with taped seams to keep the rain out, plus a fold-away hood so you’re not faffing about when the rain appears. Layering nicely over your workwear without the bulk, whether you're on-site, on the move, or caught in a downpour, the Hale’s a smart bit of kit that keeps you dry and focused on the job.
DeWalt Easton PWS Performance T-Shirt
A workwear basic every tradie needs, the DeWalt Easton PWS Performance T-Shirt, with its casual fit and logo design looks good both on the site or off. Designed with sweat-wicking fabric, and raglan sleeves and side vents for movement, this staple tee keeps you cool and comfortable all day.
If you're after something without a logo, the TuffStuff Elite Polo is also a solid shout. On colder days, just throw on a fleece or bodywarmer and you’re sorted- layering done right.
Tips From the Team
We’ve all been the new one on site, so we want to leave you with a few quick tips from the Hollands crew to help you hit the ground running:
- Break in your boots early – There’s nothing worse than blisters halfway through your first shift, wear them around the house or on a walk before day one.
- Keep a spare pair of socks – Trust us on this, cold, wet feet are the fastest way to ruin your day- and you can never have too many socks!
- Layer smart – For those frostier months, start with a moisture-wicking base, add a warm mid-layer, and top it with a waterproof layer so you’re covered, whatever the weather brings.
- Don’t overpack – You don’t need the entire tool bag on day one. You’ll learn what you need on the job, bring the essentials, wear the right gear, and turn up ready to learn.
Confidence Starts with the Right Kit
Little things make a big difference when you're just starting out, and confidence comes with the right kit.
Your workwear says you're part of the team, ready to graft, learn, and earn your place. Everyone starts somewhere, and with the right gear, you can take pride in it, get stuck in, and you’re halfway there.
We hope our apprentice starter kit has answered some questions! Why not take a look at our full site-ready workwear collection and get first-day-ready with confidence?
About the Author
Matthew Holland brings a wealth of expertise to the world of workwear. With an extensive background in warehousing and outdoor work, he possesses an intricate understanding of the high-quality, functional garments needed for the demands of the workplace. Using his hands-on experience and knowledge gained, he continues to contribute valuable insights that resonate with professionals seeking superior workwear across various industries.
