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Special winner plumber
A Homes for Haringey plumber, Natasha McDonald, 27, has won a top learning award to become the overall national winner for England in the National Vocational Qualification awards, held on 23 June 2010. Natasha had already been announced as the VQ Learner of the Year for London (over 25) in May.
The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London where she studied for her NVQ Advanced Level 3 Plumbing Apprenticeship, nominated her for the prestigious award. Tutors described her as an exemplary role model for other women looking to enter construction and praised her inspirational talks at job fairs to prospective students.
Natasha attended College one day a week over three years and worked the remaining four days with Homes for Haringey, where she is now employed full time. She completed a full Apprenticeship and an Advanced Apprenticeship in July 2009.
The awards were held yesterday at the Royal Horticulture Halls, where Natasha was presented with a certificate of recognition and plaque by Lord Baker of Dorking and entertainment icon Arlene Phillips, OBE.
Natasha, who plans on studying Engineering next, said: “It was a shock to be announced overall winner, I’m delighted. I love plumbing and fixing blockages in people’s homes.
“I’ve studied and work hard so it is really rewarding to get recognised for the work I do. I am also passionate about encouraging other women to enter the construction industry. I have been to job fairs on behalf of Homes for Haringey and spoken at Haringey's International Women's Day. This has helped me to connect with females who are thinking of a career in construction and offer my advice.”
Chief Executive, Paul Bridge, added: “This is fantastic news. We are very proud of the dedication and commitment Natasha has shown throughout her apprenticeship. This award adds to the growing list of accolades Natasha has so far received.”
The College’s principal Paul Head was present at the event to see Natasha and Delroy Ogiste, a performing Arts Learner, receiving their awards. “I’m so proud of both of them,” he said. “They are fantastic examples of the power of vocational learning to change lives, and they fully deserve all the praise they have had.”
The event showcases vocational excellence from around the country, and recognises outstanding vocational achievers through the VQ Learner of the Year Awards. The Awards honour two regional winners (under 24 and 25 and over). National winners for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland were also announced.
