Plumbing Apprentice Makes National Finals

Published by Elizabeth Pokorny for Kier Services in Housing and also in Communities

A Sheffield College apprentice has got through to the finals of a national plumbing competition - for the second year running.

Adam Leonard, 22, from Halfway, Sheffield has just clinched the North West regional competition of the UK Apprentice Plumber of the Year.  He won a carbon monoxide tester and an inspection camera and will now compete in the national final at Swindon College, Wiltshire, on May 8th and 9th.

Adam is completing his Level 3 Plumbing Apprenticeship with Kier Sheffield LLP, and studies at Sheffield City College campus, Granville Road, one day a week. 

He said: "I am absolutely delighted to have got a place in the final for the second year running. The competition was tough and lasted for four hours. The task involved working to tight tolerances and included complexed pipework bends and joint soldering, which I completed in three hours."

Adam is one of 856 apprentices training with The Sheffield College in South Yorkshire. They learn the tools of their trade in 26 different sectors ranging from business administration and dental technology to horticulture and pharmacy. Approximately 500 employers support the college's apprenticeship programme. The college is expanding provision so more employers can benefit. 

Apprenticeship Week from March 11th to 15th celebrates the positive impact that apprenticeships have on individuals, businesses and the economy, and is led by the National Apprenticeship Service. 

During Apprenticeship Week, the college is encouraging more young people and employers to sign upto an apprenticeship. It is also offering a drop in session to young people interested in finding out more about apprenticeships in the construction trade. 

Adam started an apprenticeship after completing A Levels. “Training as an apprentice is the best decision I've ever made. I’ve gained invaluable work experience, and I like the fact I am training on the job and earning a wage," he added. 

Julie Byrne, Principal of Sheffield City College campus, said: "We are very proud of Adam and his success. Apprenticeships offer young people a fantastic opportunity to earn as they learn, and provide employers with the skilled workers of tomorrow that can help their businesses to grow."

Simon Bullen, Kier Regional Managing Director, said: “We are delighted for Adam and his second competition achievement. Accomplishments like this demonstrate the benefits of providing opportunities and Kier continues to be committed to investing in the future of local young people and the future of our city. 

The North West regional heats of the UK Apprentice Plumber of the Year 2013 took place at Harrogate College in North Yorkshire on February 7th. 

For more information about Sheffield College apprenticeships, full-time courses beginning in September 2013 and March open evenings, go to www.sheffcol.ac.uk, email businessgateway@sheffcol.ac.uk or call 0114 2602600.