Liam Paynter, an apprentice plumber from Leeds, has reached the semi-final stage of Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2024.
This year’s Screwfix Trade Apprentice received more than 1,800 applications. A statement said that entries have now been whittled down to 33, all of whom are in with the chance of being crowned Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2024 at the national final in May.
Liam, 16, who is currently studying plumbing at Leeds College of Building, was nominated by his employer, Dale Taafe at Dyno Plumbing.
Dale said: “I’m delighted that Liam has reached the semi-finals of Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2024. Liam is without doubt the best apprentice we have ever employed; he has a thirst for knowledge and a genuine love of the trade. It is a great achievement.”
Liam added: “I can’t believe I’ve reached the semi-finals of Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2024. For me, an apprenticeship isn’t just about learning new skills, it’s helped me unlock a passion. To reach the semi-finals is a result of my dedication and determination to embark on a successful career in the trades.
“I’m really proud to have made it to the semi-finals and I’m excited to showcase my story so far, I hope it’s enough to secure my place in the final and be crowned Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2024.”
Liam was shortlisted for the semi-final for his passion, dedication and ambition, the statement added.
Dale continued: “Liam is a pleasure to work with and it’s great to see such enthusiasm and drive from such a young worker. He is always keen to be sent to jobs where he can learn new skills and assist the engineer he is with.
“Our engineers are very impressed at the progress Liam is making and regularly request that he works with them on jobs. We are very proud to have him working at our company.”
This year’s final will return to London in May, where the top 10 apprentices are set to face a panel of industry experts to showcase why they believe they should be this year’s champion, it noted. The statement also said only one will be crowned Screwfix Trade Apprentice and receive a £10,000 trade bundle made up of tools, tech and training.
The judging panel includes representatives from Screwfix, the Federation of Master Builders, the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering, and the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting.
In addition, Astrid Arnold, winner of Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2023, will also be at the final to talk about her own experiences and share some of the exciting projects she’s been a part of since being crowned champion.