The search has begun to find a construction craft apprentice who has overcome significant diversity across Northern Ireland.

CITB NI and Radius Housing are on the look out for an individual who succeeded in completing their training programme and achieved a construction qualification at NVQ Level 2 or Level 3 despite great adversity.

The Apprenticeship Endeavour Award applies to those who undertook their training between September 2017 & August 2019. The winner will be awarded £500.

Last year's event saw Robert Mythen and Gerard McGeown claim the accolade after being nominated by their respective colleges Southern Regional College and Belfast Metropolitan College. Robert who is profoundly deaf and Gerard who has severe dyslexia both demonstrated that despite personal difficulties they achieved their construction qualifications and gained employment.


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Barry Neilson, Chief Executive, CITB NI said: "We are delighted to be working in partnership with Radius Housing to recognise an apprentice's journey, against all odds, to continue their education and achieve a construction qualification. Last year's winners Robert & Gerard and have shown that personal resilience will help you succeed. Their stories will provide inspiration to others within the construction training network who are experiencing personal difficulties. We want to acknowledge an apprentice who hasn’t given up despite difficulties and reward them for their determination and achievements. Individuals can apply directly or be nominated by a third party."

John McLean, Chief Executive,  Radius Housing added: "As a leading social enterprise involved in housing care and support to over 33,000 homes across Northern Ireland we are delighted to be partnering with CITB NI in this new award and providing the £500 award. Many construction apprentices have worked on our social housing developments and we understand the needs, demands and challenges faced within the sector."

The competition is now open for entries and will close on Friday 14 February 2020.,
The winner will be presented with the award at the Skillbuild NI Finals on Tuesday 19 May 2020.

All applicants must sign up to the Terms and Conditions of the award which can be found here.

(CM/MH)