Apprentices have stepped into the spotlight to demonstrate their painting and decorating skills at Leeds College of Building.
The college hosted the Northern regional heat of the Apprentice/Trainee of the Year competition, run by national trade body the Painting and Decorating Association (PDA).
Apprentices from across the region – including three from Leeds College of Building – took on a precision painting challenge which tested their nerve and skill.
Chief executive of the PDA, Neil Ogilvie and Andrew Davis from the Association of Painting Craft Teachers (APCT) were judges at the contest.
Neil said: “Our competitions offer young trainees the chance to share their experiences, demonstrate their skills and network with other apprentices.
“For some of them, their training, work and social lives have been severely disrupted for more than a year and these competition events gave them the opportunity to shine – and to meet fellow apprentices in the industry – in a Covid-secure environment.
“The generous and continued support of our sponsors, Johnstone’s Trade Paint, Purdy Professional Painting Tools and CITB, allows us to offer these vital opportunities to trainees in the industry.
“It has been a pleasure to visit Leeds College of Building and meet so many talented apprentices who are embarking on their career in colour.”
Finalists of the Apprentice/Trainee of the Year will be invited to the PDA’s Premier Trophy Awards which will be held at Plaisterers’ Hall, London, on September 16.
Regional heats were also held at Bournemouth and Poole College and at Coventry College.
To find a PDA member, visit: paintingdecoratingassociation.co.uk
