A plumbing apprentice who works at Bellway’s Houlton Meadows development in Rugby has been recognised in the national housebuilder’s Apprentice of the Year awards.

Ben Elliot, 22, who lives in Kilsby, was one of just two Bellway apprentices from across the UK to be highly commended in this year’s awards – behind the overall winner.

In recognition of his achievements, Ben was awarded a cash prize of £250 – which he plans to spend on some new tools for his trade.

Commenting on his award, Ben said:

“It is very fulfilling to have had my hard work over the last few years recognised by Bellway.

“After leaving school, I went straight into an apprenticeship as a mechanic for a reputable car company. I realised after two years that this wasn’t for me, and that I needed a change.

“I looked into other apprenticeships, and an opportunity came up to work as an apprentice plumber with Bellway, alongside studying for an NVQ Level 2 plumbing qualification.

“I knew straight away that I had found the right job for me. I enjoy what I do and look forward to coming into work every day. I get on really well with everybody, and I particularly enjoy the friendly atmosphere on site. It is great to have a job that you genuinely enjoy doing, and that is definitely the case now.

“Now I have completed my Level 2 plumbing NVQ, I am focusing on studying further, and working towards my NVQ Level 3 plumbing qualification. I am keen to keep working hard and honing my skills to become fully qualified as a plumber.

“Being recognised for this award has given me an extra boost to work harder to be even better at what I do – for myself and for the company.

“I will put my winnings towards the cost of some new tools as a treat to myself. I feel very proud to have received this award and look forward to what the rest of my career with Bellway entails.”

Ben Smith, Managing Director of Bellway South Midlands, said:

“I am delighted that Ben’s hard work and dedication to his craft has been rewarded with this commendation.

“Ben is one of the most advanced apprentices in his group at college and is determined to better himself at every opportunity. He consistently applies himself and is keen to learn, and this is reflected in his 100 per cent attendance record at college, where he learns the skills which he applies on site.

“He is incredibly professional and can be relied upon to complete a range of jobs to a high standard without supervision.

“Ben’s career progression is a great example of the wide-ranging opportunities that are available to young people through our apprenticeship scheme. We are incredibly fortunate to have such a dedicated young man as part of the team at Houlton Meadows, and we look forward to seeing his career develop in the years ahead.”

For further information about Bellway’s apprenticeship programme, visit https://www.bellwaycareers.co.uk/apprenticeship-programme/.