Dedication makes Ashley an ideal Apprentice of the Year

Ashley receiving his Apprentice of the Year Award

Judges of a national competition identified leadership qualities of top Bournemouth & Poole College apprentice

Bournemouth & Poole College apprentice Ashley Craig has been crowned Apprentice of the Year in the prestigious annual Construction News magazine awards ceremony. The judges were lavish in their praise for Ashley’s dynamism and positive attitude.

Ashley showed his dedication by completing his coursework seven months early to take an extra module on more complex welding techniques. He has also put in extra time at weekends to practice and improve his technique.

Ashley is in the third and final year of his college Welding Apprenticeship working for Bourne Steel in Poole.

“It’s a real honour for me,” said Ashley, “but it’s also recognition for all those who have helped me to win it including my tutors at the college and the training staff at Bourne.”

Projects Ashley has contributed to include large curved roof sections for a recycling and energy recovery facility in Leeds and complex roof sections for the Midland Goods Shed.

Bourne Steel Managing Director, Nick Hayes said: “I am extremely proud of Ashley and everything he has achieved over the past three years with Bourne Steel. His enthusiasm has rubbed off on his colleagues and he sets an excellent example for good practice within the business. We believe that Ashley’s success will inspire future apprentices for years to come.”

The competition judges said: “Ashley strives for perfection in everything that he does, seeking out opportunities to both learn from his colleagues and pass on what he learns to them.

“He sets an example for good practice within the business and is not afraid to question established practices.”

The judges were also impressed that he was “pushing everybody to do better” as well as showing commitment to his personal development.

In addition to earning more responsibility on the workshop floor, Ashley is taking a leadership role among the apprentices.

He showed initiative in negotiating a new pay scheme to give apprentices a pay rise as they progress through college and develop new skills. He is also mentoring apprentices who are new to the business.

With his skills and attitude, the judges predict that Ashley will enjoy a successful career in the industry.