Friday 19 February 2010
Apprentice scoops top awards
The annual awards ceremony of the National Skills Academy for Nuclear and Cogent Sector Skills Council took place recently at the Palace Hotel, Manchester. Local lad and College Apprentice Lewis, who works for Hinkley Point B, was surprised and delighted to collect not only the South West Regional Nuclear Apprentice of the Year Award - but also the National Nuclear Apprentice of the Year title!
On receiving his two awards Lewis said, "What can I say, I enjoy everything I do. It's a great time for the industry and to be with British Energy. Thank you for all the support from the power station and Bridgwater College and special thanks to John Phillips, Hinkley Point B Apprentice Co-ordinator."
Lewis was presented with his national award by Roland Fletcher, Apprentice Manager at the National Skills Academy, Nuclear. He commented, "The panel were extremely impressed by Lewis' willingness to learn, keenness to help support and motivate younger apprentices, his passion for his chosen trade and enthusiasm for really wanting to embed and grow his skills on his current job to gain more experience and learn more about the operation of Hinkley Point B power station. The panel was in no doubt that Lewis has a bright future ahead of him and is a great role model for those thinking about undertaking an apprenticeship and the benefits this can bring, through hard work, dedication and enthusiasm."
Fiona McMillan, Principal of Bridgwater College said, "This is such an achievement for one of our Apprentices - Lewis beat off strong competition from across the nuclear industry and this is a fantastic achievement which is thoroughly deserved. We understand that the standard of entrants in the category was extremely high, so Lewis winning this prestigious award is testament to the hard work and effort he has put in."
