Daniel Gowland, an apprentice at Mears and Gateshead College, has been recognised by the Newcastle branch of the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE) for his hard work and expertise in his field.
The prestigious JB Wilkinson Shield, which was established in 1913 by the Master of The Worshipful Company of Plumbers, recognises outstanding apprentices as well as outstanding teaching.
Both Daniel and Gateshead College were presented with the two-part award by Erica Stary, current Master of the Worshipful Company of Plumbers, which works closely with the CIPHE.
The JB Wilkinson shield is awarded following the assessment of the nominee’s portfolio, which includes written and photographic evidence of their work and understanding of plumbing and heating. Each regional branch, in this case Newcastle, collects and assesses the information ahead of the regional awards.
Following the regional win, which included a cash prize, tools and industry books, Daniel is now set to be put forward for the national awards, which are being judged in November, with winners invited to the House of Commons for a special luncheon.
The JB Wilkinson Shield for the best plumbing college 2016 award marks the fourth Gateshead College student to collect the accolade in its 103 year history, with wins in 2014, 1936 and 1931.
Erica, who attended Gateshead College to present them with the two-part award, said: “The JB Wilkinson Shield is a long standing prestigious award which recognises the best individuals and education providers in the industry.
“We look for high quality teaching and those with a fantastic learning portfolio, which were both met by Daniel and Gateshead College once again. The college’s dedication to the industry and preparing the next generation of experts is outstanding.”