City College Plymouth Student Wins the South West Regional Heat of the Dulux Apprentice of the Year

City College Plymouth student, Claire Hill is celebrating after securing first place in the prestigious Dulux 'Apprentice of the Year' South West regional heat. Claire, a third year Apprentice, entered the competition with fellow first year Apprentice, Harry Hook.

The competition aims to provide NVQ level 2 and 3 painting and decorating students with a challenging, but fun and practical competition.

Each student was asked to complete a series of practical demonstrations, comprising various elements of painting, wallpapering, stencilling, glossing and masking.

As a result of her success Claire will compete in the national final, held at Stoke-on-Trent in June.

Barry Punter, painting and decorating section leader at City College Plymouth commented: "Both Claire and Harry have made us all extremely proud with the standard of work they have produced under the tuition of their lecturers Brian Birnie and Syd Dart.

"Claire has worked extremely hard throughout her Apprenticeship and her efforts are now coming to fruition. This is Claire's third national final in three months."

The overall winner will be awarded the Dulux Decorator Centres' 'Apprentice of the Year 2009' and will receive £1,000 cash, and a variety of other prizes, which will benefit them in the trade.

The student's winning college will also win a Graco airless spray machine and a selection of products for all students to use.