Ayr College student picks up trio of awards

Oct 10 2008 by Lisa Boyle, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

A TEENAGE plumber has a promising career in the pipeline after taking the plunge and bagging a hat trick of top awards.

Ayr College student Calum McCutcheon has scooped the Deacon’s Award for Best Apprentice in the West of Scotland.

And the 19-year-old has been awarded Construction Student of the Year and overall Student of the Year for 2008.

Calum has just started the third year of his apprenticeship and attends the college on a day release basis.

The Dunure teen works full time for JP Telfer Plumbing.

The Deacon Awards recognise excellence in the trades throughout the country.

Calum was nominated for the Deacon’s Award by SNIPEF (Scotland and Northern Ireland Plumbers Employers Federation) after he demonstrated considerable hard work at their annual Scottish colleges’ plumbing competition.

College bosses say Calum’s enthusiasm is a great example to fellow students.

Alan White, plumbing and gas curriculum leader, said: “Calum is a model student.

“He has demonstrated a keenness to learn in all areas of the industry and excels in his chosen subject.

“He puts in extra time at college to further develop his potential and is respected by his fellow students.”

Delighted Calum said: “I’ve had a great year so far both in college and with JP Telfer.

“I’m really enjoying the plumbing course and I’m looking forward to getting stuck into my third year, and continuing to develop my plumbing and gas qualifications.

“I started working with JP Telfer after leaving school, as I always wanted a trade. I’m really enjoying working for them, every day is different and I feel like I’m getting the chance to develop my skills.”

And Calum’s boss, John Telfer says he is honoured to have such a dedicated employee.

He added: “We are extremely proud of Calum, he has done very well this year. His award wouldn’t have been possible if he hadn’t been enrolled at Ayr College.”