Young Apprentice of the Year Award

Matthew started his Young Apprenticeship in Engineering in September 2004, and says: “I feel that the certificate I will receive at the end of the programme will provide an open door for me into the engineering world.

“The Young Apprenticeship programme has influenced me in my decision to pursue a career in Electronic Engineering. I plan to continue with my education up to degree level, hoping to take Maths, Physics, Chemistry and Electronics at AS-Level and go on to read Electronic Engineering at degree level.”

Matthew’s experiences have included building, developing and testing power lighting and control circuits. He has also been trained in Health & Safety, and is now able to understand, identify and minimise risks and hazards. These practical skills and experiences have also contributed to his wider education, helping with his GSCE studies in electronics, maths and physics. 
 
Matthew’s training has benefited not only himself but also other young people interested in a career in Engineering: “I have been able to help other pupils within my GCSE Electronics class who were not lucky enough to be selected to be a Young Apprentice by ‘buddying’ and passing on my knowledge and experience.  I have also worked with a Junior Young Engineers Club over the past two years, introducing Year 6 pupils to the world of engineering. This has improved my communication, team work and leadership skills, and boosted my confidence and motivation.”   For fours years, Matthew has been actively involved with St Benedict’s Young Engineers’ Club and he has also assisted in producing a presentation given to prospective Young Apprentices.

He has been awarded Engineer of the Year at St Benedict’s School, Whitehaven in three consecutive years. He also coaches young squash players and has recently become the youngest qualified England coach – three days after his 16th birthday.

Robin Simpson, Electrical Instructor at Gen II Engineering & Technology Training said: “Matthew is a credit to himself, his family and his school.”  

Matthew has been short-listed for the Young Apprentice category in the national Apprenticeship Awards 2006.  Ian Lupton, Director of Engineering at St Benedict’s stated: “This is an outstanding achievement to be short-listed for this prestigious award.  Matthew is a fantastic role model who has applied himself with great commitment during his time at St Benedict’s and has been a pleasure to teach”.