Apprentice of the year

Winner

Timothy Hughes

If determination and dedication are the hallmarks of a good apprentice, then Tim is in the top echelon. Whether at college or on site, Tim has been impressing teachers and colleagues in equal measure.

David Peach, his lecturer at Burton Training Organisation, has been overseeing his work on the Advanced Apprenticeship training scheme and cites the feedback he gets from both college and work which "Always ranges from good to excellent in all disciplines". He goes on to say that “in 15 years in education, I can confidently say that Tim is one of the most dedicated students that I have ever met."

The plaudits don't stop there. His employer Sean Tracy Smyth, of Burton on Trent-based WT Parker, adds: "Tim shows maturity beyond his years and is keen to develop and fast track his career in the industry by accepting responsibility and gaining qualifications."

In addition to work and studying, Tim is a member of a testing team that is carrying out work on a long-term contract at Toyota.

Runners-up

Andrew Baskeyfield

Andrew is currently 18-months into his apprenticeship with Greenwald & Gregory in Northwood, Middlesex and has lost no time in making a good impression.

Director Barry Linden describes him as a "valuable asset to the company" whose technical standards on-site are very good. He also praises Andrew's attitude: "He shows a mature approach to gaining the necessary skills required to become a competent tradesman. He is popular with staff and is an effective team member, and no doubt has the ability to progress his future career in the trade."

At West Herts College, lecturer Lee Botham describes him as a "Model student" who really applies himself to his studies, both practical and theory. He continues: "Andrew shows great maturity in the manner in which he conducts himself. He often completes work ahead of other students, then helps his less able peers or assists his lecturers with related work."

Ahasain Taj

With an NVQ level 3 under his belt and having recently sat his AM2 test, Ahasain is well on the way to being an accomplished apprentice. At college and at work his diligence, willingness to learn and popularity have all come in for praise.

Mr C Jackson of employer WT Parker of Burton on Trent, says: "During his time with the company he has shown he is a good team worker and is always in demand by site foremen. His work on-site is of the highest standard, and he is capable of completing any task asked of him."

Praise from fellow electricians is always a good benchmark of progress and Ahasain has been scoring top marks in this department according to his training manager, David Peach of Burton Training Organisation. He explains: "At work I am required to visit him on site, and review his progress with his peers. On numerous occasions I have been told that he not only works hard, but is also focused and disciplined." Mr Jackson agrees: "Any electrician he works with always gives a complimentary report as to how he is doing."