An apprentice at our College has been announced the coveted BMI ‘Redland Apprentice of the Year 2018.’
Jay Webster triumphed over nine other finalists for the best pitched-roofing apprentice, selected from over 100 other national entrants in the roofing competition.
The finalists competed over two days at the BMI National Training Centre in Gloucestershire where they received professional coaching on topics including business planning, presentation skills, and technical skills. The competitors were assessed by a selection of leading figures in the roofing industry.
The event concluded with the Apprentice of the Year Awards Dinner, where the winners of the competition were announced. Jay was awarded the title along with a £1,000 cash prize to invest in his future, a trophy, plus a goody bag of roofing tools and materials. He is also now entitled to support from the industry brand leaders.
Jay Webster triumphed over nine other finalists for the best pitched-roofing apprentice, selected from over 100 other national entrants in the roofing competition.
Mat Woodyatt, BMI Technical Training Manager, said:
“These awards are part of a wider group strategy to recognise and reward those coming into the industry. We want to raise the appeal of roofing and motivate more youngsters and career-changers to get involved”.
Leeds College of Building tutor, David Mallory, said:
“Jay had to complete a business plan, complete a fault-finding task, and also put together a personal presentation delivered to the judges. The feedback on Jay was very positive and all spoke very highly of him after the competition. Well done, Jay!”
Speaking after the prize-giving, Jay, who works for Yorkshire Heritage Roofing, said:
“Words can’t really describe how I feel and I still can’t believe it to be honest. I became more confident as the competition went on but to actually win it, tells me I’m better than I thought I was.”
Jay found out about the competition through his tutors and entered it by himself, writing an essay as to why he wanted to be a roofer. Jay has already competed in SkillBuild several times and has won a silver medal. The competition has given Jay so much confidence that he is now determined set up his own company.
Jay Webster (right) with his prize cheque outside the Leeds College of Building North Street Campus.
