Patrick Williams, the Leadbitter Group’s youngest ever apprentice, was named UK Apprentice of the Year by the Federation of Master Builders at a ceremony at the Park Plaza Hotel in London on Friday 11th March.
Channel Four’s property presenter, Phil Spencer, presented Patrick with the prestigious award in recognition of his exemplary woodwork and dedication to furthering his skills. Having been named FMB’s Wales Apprentice of the Year in November 2010, Patrick was in competition with apprentices from all regions of the UK for this top award.
Patrick, who was supported by a ConstructionSkills Apprentice Officer, joined Leadbitter’s Western Housing Division three years ago at the age of 16 and impressed his employers from the start. His dedication was such that he walked 45 minutes each way from his home in Dinas Powys to arrive early at work in Ely, Cardiff, every day.
Russell Houghton, Regional Director of Leadbitter’s Western Housing Division, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that Patrick has won this award. He thoroughly deserves this recognition as he has a real commitment to carpentry and a dedication to producing high quality results.”
In the three years since starting with Leadbitter, Patrick has completed his NVQ Level three in Wood Occupations and passed his Advanced Construction Award (ACA). Along the way Patrick has achieved his NVQ level two and a distinction in both his Foundation Construction Award (FCA) and Intermediate Construction Award (ICA), whilst continuing to flourish working on various Leadbitter developments.
Jeannette Hawrot, Leadbitter Group Community Engagement Manager, said: “Patrick is an unsung hero who quietly and unassumingly gets on with whatever he is asked to do.
He is committed, hardworking and high achieving. I was delighted to put Patrick forward for this award, as I felt he really deserved recognition for all he has achieved while working with us.”
Richard Diment, FMB Director General, said: “In this, our 10th year, we are delighted to be able to reward an apprentice who shows such dedication, determination and professionalism. We are impressed not just by Patrick’s trade skills, evidenced by his excellent grades, but also by his enthusiasm and eagerness to gain a breadth of practical experience. He will without doubt be a great addition to the construction industry.”
Patrick received a cheque for £1000 and Leadbitter was also presented with a £250 voucher in recognition of the vital role that they play in developing the next generation of skilled construction professionals.
