Say hello to our friendly team
Our staff are passionate, committed and great team players that create a thriving work environment, benefiting all of our students.
Read below to find out more about each member…
Martin Grayston
Nick name: ‘Boss’.
Teaches: I’m the Manager of the centre and I also teach Bricklaying, Health and Safety and CSCS card.
How long have you worked at PVC? Since the centre opened on 2nd February 2009.
Best thing about working at PVC: Everyday is different. It’s really rewarding when you see students gaining confidence, progressing towards a positive outcome. I also have a fantastic team, who are a joy to work with everyday!
One interesting fact about me: I once climbed to Everest ‘Basecamp’ which is over 17,000 ft high.
Alex Coppola
Teaches: Painting and Decorating
How long have you worked at PVC? Since November 2021
What is the best thing about working at PVC? Teaching the students new skills that they’ll be able to use in their homes or future careers.
What is an interesting fact about you? I have been to the top of the twin towers in New York and also been back and visited ground zero.
Asha Hirst
Role: Administration Officer.
How long have you worked at PVC? Since November 2020.
The best thing about working at PVC is: Everyone is lovely and works great together as a team. It’s fantastic to work in a place where students are given the chance to have the opportunities to learn new skills and make a positive start to their futures.
One interesting fact about me: Meeting English actor – Chris Bisson who starred in Coronation Street, Emmerdale and Shameless.
Paul Kier
Role: Plastering Tutor
How long have you worked at PVC? Since March 2022
What is the best thing about working at PVC? Teaching Students new skills which will help them with their future.
What is an interesting fact about you? I was on a flight to USA on 9/11 going to Vegas but had to be re-directed to Canada for a week!
I worked in Germany on Schalke 04 stadium for 11 months then onto Holland for 4 months – I loved the experience of working in Europe.
I met Mick Hucknall in a rave in 1990 – went and shook his hand to the disbelief of my friends.
Rob Myerscough
Teaches: Brickwork
How long have you worked at PVC? Since December 2022
Best thing about working at PVC: I'll tell you when i've been here longer.
One interesting fact about me: I have dual nationality.
Laura Newing
Role: Student Support Mentor 
How long have you been at PVC? Since September 2023, although I've been volunteering here since April.
Best thing about working at PVC? No day is the same and watching the students progress in a trade and confidence is the best thing.
One interesting fact about me: In July 2023 I Walked up the BIG One ride in Blackpool for Kids For Kids Charity!
John Porter
Teaches: Technician/Tutor
How long have you been at PVC? Since 2023
Best thing about working at PVC? I love working with and teaching students.
One interesting fact about me: I play the electric guitar.
Chris Webb
Teaches: Admin Officer for the Post 16 ESF Project.
How long have you been at PVC? I have worked part time at PVC since April 2018.
Best thing about working at PVC: Every day is different, the Team are committed and enthusiastic, but best of all is seeing the difference PVC makes to the students. Seeing them grow in confidence and achieve skills and qualifications that they often didn’t believe they could attain.
One interesting fact about me: I was on a flight to Chicago and as we started to descend the Captain announced that there was no need to worry but there was a little problem with one of the engines and we would be met by the emergency services. It was slightly alarming to land far away from the main terminal buildings and see ten fire engines and ambulances waiting for us. Fortunately after being checked the plane was allowed to proceed to the terminal and we could disembark normally, I didn’t really fancy going down the emergency chute!!
Daniel Whalley
Nick name: ‘Baldy’.
Teaches: Plumbing and Building Maintenance.
How long have you worked at PVC? Since 8th January 2018.
Career before PVC: I did a carpentry and joinery apprenticeship, then spent one year as a Joiner on domestic and commercial sites. I then worked as a self-employed Dry Liner building metal partitions and ceilings on commercial sites across the country.
Best thing about PVC: The fantastic team and watching the students grow in confidence.
Interesting fact: I played ice hockey till I was 15 and I am also a qualified FA football coach and manage a team.