A young bricklayer from Cumbria has been named as a housebuilder’s top apprentice.
Daniel Waugh, of Carlisle, won the Persimmon Homes Apprentice of the Year title at the company’s annual awards ceremony and also received the overall Persimmon Achiever of the Year prize.
Daniel joined Persimmon from school and since joining the company he has attained his Level 2 bricklaying standard apprenticeship, passing all elements with distinction, despite the challenging circumstances of learning through the pandemic.
He is now working on his Level 3 qualification and mentoring new apprentices, enabling younger trainees to benefit from his experience.
The 19-year-old, currently based at Persimmon’s Carleton Meadows development in Penrith, said: “I was surprised to be nominated and totally amazed when my name was announced at the awards dinner. Construction is a fantastic industry to work in and I’m really grateful to Persimmon for the training opportunities they have given me.”
Daniel received his two awards at an event hosted by Persimmon’s CEO Dean Finch and TV personality Cherry Healey.
John Roocroft, managing director for Persimmon Homes Lancashire and Scotland, said: “Daniel has demonstrated the highest professional standards and is a valued member of the Persimmon family.
“It is because of such quality and dedication that we can continue to offer wonderful new homes to our customers, despite all the global challenges and uncertainties of the last two years.
“He is already a role model for younger apprentices joining our business and his story is inspiring students at local schools and careers events to consider jobs in the construction industry and Persimmon Homes.
“We are absolutely thrilled that his hard work has been recognised with these awards.”
Dan’s onsite mentor, Gareth Dent, added: “Dan displays high levels of ability, producing excellent work and is always keen to learn. He has a quiet confidence about him and, although still only 19, he is already leading his own work gang. He is a credit to Persimmon Homes and a great role model to new apprentices.”
