A Doncaster College student has won a national award for his painting and decorating skills.
Chris Shaw, 23, a painting and decorating apprentice from Doncaster College, has been announced Dulux Decorator Centres’ National Apprentice of the Year 2011, after competing against finalists from all over the UK.
Judges said they were impressed with the student’s attention to detail and creative flair during the grand finale.
Chris, who has spent three years at Doncaster College, said: “I am thrilled to be named Dulux Decorator Centres’ Apprentice of the Year 2011, especially as the standard of the competitors was so high.
“The final work piece was really challenging and we needed to use lots of different techniques, but I really loved taking part in the competition.
“I’m now looking forward to running my own company, Oak Apple Decor, and will be utilising all the skills I’ve learnt throughout my apprenticeship and in the competition.”
The finalists were asked to complete a piece of work using wallpapering, stencilling, waterborne glosses, and special effects.
The prize was £1,000 cash, a certificate, Cerruti pen, glass engraved trophy, group photo and a Dulux fluffy dog, plus a supplier goody bag, and prizes for the college.
Glyn Nettleton, Chris’ lecturer at Doncaster College, said: “We are really pleased that Chris has been named as this year’s Dulux Decorator Centres’ Apprentice of the Year, it’s a fantastic honour not only for Chris, but also the college.
“The accolade that comes with winning such a prestigious competition provides Chris with a great platform to kick start a successful career in the painting and decorating industry, and I really would urge colleges to put forward their most talented students next year.”