The success of the first of JTL’s apprentices has seen seven young adults rewarded for completing their BPEC Level 3 Plumbing Qualification at Hull College.

The event was held as part of a working partnership between the British Plumbing Employers Council (BPEC) and JTL, a provider of apprenticeships and associated training in the building services engineering sector.


The chief executive officers of both organisations, Jon Graham from JTL and Paul Johnson from BPEC, were at the event to present framed certificates and a set of tools to each of the successful apprentices able to attend. Staff from Hull College and the apprentices' JTL training officer, John Wilkinson, were also in the audience.


The apprentices who received their certificates on the day were Jamie Milner, Liam Smith, Alex Berry, Luke Metcalfe and Tom Dungworth - all from the Hull area. Joe Norton and Bradley Cowley were unable to be at the event but will receive their certificates and awards at a later date.


"We believe it's important to recognise excellence and these young men have worked hard for their qualification and deserve recognition," said Mr Johnson. "We're pleased that the on-going partnership between BPEC and JTL continues to bear fruit and to deliver high quality young people into the plumbing industry."


"There's never been a better time to consider a plumbing apprenticeship in this country," said Mr Graham. "The improvement in the economy is driving the need for new blood in the sector on a daily basis.


“We know from industry statistics that many senior plumbers will be looking to retire in the next few years, so it's vital that we recruit more young people who can take on a role in the industry and provide the skills and the experience that we will need hugely in the years ahead.


“For bright young people like these who are of a practical nature and keen to excel in a trade, this is a wonderful opportunity. For employers, the opportunity to add to their workforce and build their businesses around young people looking for a lifelong trade makes good business sense."


Young people looking for options and thinking of taking up an apprenticeship in the plumbing or heating and ventilating sectors have been encouraged by JTL to visit www.jtltraining.co.uk or www.bpec.org.uk.


Image (l-r): Tom Dungworth, Jamie Milner, Luke Metcalfe, Liam Smith and Alex Berry