An apprentice at PROGRESS HOUSING GROUP has scooped a top award for his studies.
Andrew Wolfenden, 19, was awarded the Apprentice of the Year title for his hard work and enthusiasm on the NVQ levels 2 and 3 in plumbing and heating at Preston College, which is part of his four year Advanced Modern Apprenticeship.
The hard-working youngster is an apprentice at Progress Housing Group’s, Property Services division in Leyland and is the organisation’s third trainee to win such an award. In 2006, Progress apprentice Tom Slater secured the award hosted by JTL Training.
Andrew collected the trophy at a prestigious awards ceremony at the college and was also presented with a cheque for £100 from the housing group’s, Property Services division to mark his achievement.
This fantastic award followed a difficult few years for Andrew, who started his apprenticeship with Progress in 2008. After completing the first year of his apprenticeship Andrew was involved in a serious car crash and was off work for six months recovering from numerous broken bones.
Progress kept Andrew’s apprenticeship open and last September, after making a full recovery, Andrew was able to rejoin college to begin the second year of his NVQ level 2 course in plumbing and heating again.
Andrew said:‘I won the award for most improved pupil on the course over the last year, and am really pleased that my hard work has been recognised
“After my accident I was so relieved when Progress said that I could continue my college year again. I’m really enjoyed learning the different skills of my trade; I just can’t wait to qualify now.”
Dave Ashworth, Head of Contract, Services and Operations at Progress Housing Group’s, Property Services division, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for Andrew, especially after his accident, and we are extremely proud of him. It is very rewarding to see his hard work recognised in this way.
‘We are committed to providing opportunities for young people and we value the contribution that investing apprenticeships can bring to the local community.’
