Tom Lewis from Maesteg has won the Engineering Award at Cardiff and Vale College’s Annual Awards 2018.
The electrical installation apprentice with Blues Electrical topped off his fantastic year after coming third in the Sparks UK Electrical Apprentice contest in 2017.
Supported by his employer Blues Electrical and his CAVC Lecturer Geoff Shaw, Tom was also selected for Team UK at EuroSkills in Budapest where he competed against some of the best apprentices and trainees in Europe.
Tom said: “I’ve over the moon – I didn’t expect to win these two awards to be honest with you so I’m very happy.”
Tom’s standard of work was so high he also received the overall Principal’s Award along with another student, Bethan Hearne.
Cardiff and Vale College celebrated the hard work, success and progression of its learners at a glittering awards evening.
Hundreds of attendees from across the spectrum of local business, education providers and the community came to the lavish event. They joined friends and families of the 35 current and former students plus the College’s partner organisations who were recognised for their efforts and contribution to College life.
The ceremony was held in the stunning surroundings of the College’s City Centre Campus Atrium and was hosted by BBC, BT Sport and Premier Sport presenter Ross Harries. Showcasing the highlights of the 2017-18 academic year, the awards also illustrate the unique experiences and progression opportunities that CAVC has to offer.
All of the students recognised on the evening have either won national or regional competition awards in their chosen disciplines; competed internationally and won; progressed into apprenticeships and employment with renowned local companies; gained places in subject leading universities or gained international sporting caps alongside their studies.
There were also learners that have travelled thousands of miles to study at CAVC; started off with very little English language skills or have had illness or personal challenges to face while studying. All succeeded and progressed.
CAVC Principal Kay Martin said: “Every year at the College’s Annual Awards I am astounded by the hard work, determination and courage shown by our learners.
“This year was no exception. In fact, I think this year’s awards event has been the best one we have so far. Some of the stories we have heard have been just inspirational, exciting and motivational – what these amazing young people have done shows the differences colleges like CAVC can make.”