An apprentice has done so well in his training he's won an award, and is now looking to mentor others.

Thomas Shippam, from Dartford, has been named Electrical Apprentice of the Year for the South East by JTL, a leading national training provider for electrical and plumbing and heating apprenticeships.

After completing his apprenticeship with Muranda Electrical Solutions, on Northfleet Industrial Estate, Thomas was nominated for the award by his training officer for his progress both academically and practically.

He beat off competition on the shortlist, and will represent the South East against 10 other regional winners at JTL’s National Awards, in London on September 2.

Due to Covid-19 pandemic restrictions, the usual regional award ceremony could not take place. Instead, JTL’s business manager for the South East, Martin Hick, and Thomas’ employer presented him with an engraved glass trophy and £100 in cash.

JTL electrical training officer Chris Latham said: “Thomas’ growth over the duration of his apprenticeship has been phenomenal and I believe he would be an ideal champion for apprentices and apprenticeships.

"He has proved that working hard and asking questions is the way forward to achieving goals.

“At each onsite review, I observed Thomas’ growth of knowledge for the industry, his abilities and confidence in the high standard of work he was carrying out.

"Thomas has always worked proactively, demonstrated by the fact he completed and passed his end point assessment first time with a distinction.

"Now a fully-qualified electrician, I have no doubt that he will be a credit to the industry.”

Thomas said: “This award means so much to me. I’m very grateful for the support provided by my JTL training officer, who provided the guidance and motivation I needed to succeed.

"Now that I have completed my qualification, I am looking to oversee and mentor apprentices, continuing to work with my employer, Muranda Electrical Solutions, with the aim of running commercial projects.”

The award scheme, which is now in its sixth year, sees each finalist assessed against four key elements which make up the apprenticeship framework – their practical work onsite, theoretical knowledge, key skills and industrial test scores.

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