Two Redrow apprentices have been presented with a Gold Duke of York Award for Technical Education by Prince Andrew in an event at Buckingham Palace.
The award winners are Billy Tivey and Rebecca Driver, both former students of Medway University Technical College (UTC), where they studied BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment, which is the equivalent of three A-Levels.
Part of the course involved two weeks of work experience with Redrow’s South East division at its headquarters in Chatham, where they were able to gain some practical on-site experience as well as an understanding of what a career in the construction sector will offer.
The Duke of York Award rewards young people who have excelled and achieved the highest grades in their technical education as well as being exceptionally talented during their work experience, excelling in their work experience as well as reasoning in the work they do and communication skills with colleagues.
As well as these prestigious awards, both winners now have full-time jobs with Redrow: Billy as a trainee site assistant at the St Andrews Park in Halling, Rebecca as a commercial apprentice, aiming to become a chartered quantity surveyor.
“The work experience provided me with the opportunity to experience first-hand the day-to-day of what being a site manager involves and the role really appeals to me,” says Billy. “Before my work experience I wasn’t sure whether to pursue a career in design. It’s been really exciting going up to Buckingham Palace and receiving my award from Prince Andrew, definitely a day to remember.”
Rebecca says: “I was 14 when I figured out that a career in the construction industry would suit my abilities. I’m quite good with figures and like how these can be translated into a practical job on site. I am currently working towards a Level 6 Degree in Quantity Surveying and can’t wait to be fully qualified. It was great to be recognised by the UTC for my knowledge of the construction sector.”
Delighted by the double-win for the pair of the company’s apprentices, Mike Tynan, area construction manager at Redrow (South East), adds: “They are both exceptionally bright and it’s been so wonderful to see passionate and committed individuals coming into the sector. The construction industry is facing a real crisis in recruitment and we have found that the partnership with Medway UTC has been an excellent way of introducing young people to the opportunities within the sector and enabled them to further develop their skills.”
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