Plumbing students at Warrington are a blooming success

PLUMBING students at Warrington Collegiate have cause for celebration after developing their skills on a special Expand Project.
Not only have they all achieved a Level 1 qualification but 100 percent are progressing onto Level 2 at Warrington Collegiate in September.
In addition many have used the skills learnt on the course to design and produce roses fashioned from metal which can be used in a variety of decorative ways.
The students had all previously been designated as NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) but since engaged with the Xpand project, at Warrington
Collegiate, funded by The Skills Funding Agency and the European Social Fund, they have revealed just how talented they are.
Adam Martin, Lecturer in Plumbing at Warrington Collegiate says, “Not only did the students excel on their plumbing skills but they also expanded their skills by creating metalwork roses and chairs and wheelbarrows demonstrating impressive pipework and soldering skills.They have exceeded all expectations, shown enthusiasm and I’m proud to have been their tutor they have shown a real commitment.”
Jordan Stockwell, 17, from Padgate, is thrilled with the progress she has made, saying, “I have learned a lot and now have plans to develop my career in the plumbing industry. My ambition is to own my own business in the future.”
His words are echoed by his fellow students. 17 year old Connor Saunders from Orford, who has plans to work in the construction industry, adds, “I’m so pleased to be progressing onto the next level. The course has developed my technical skills as a plumber, but also allowed me to develop those skills on the craft side. Producing the roses was a great way to complete a really good course.”
Charlie Patzer, 17, from Whitecross, added, “The support from the college was fantastic; the tutors were so enthusiastic and knowledgeable. They really inspired and motivated me to achieve a great result. I’m really confident I’m going to have a real future in plumbing and hope to run my own business one day.”
Phil Walsh, Curriculum Leader for plumbing says, “Many of these students face challenges in their own lives and to overcome these and gain a qualification and progress onto college is a fantastic achievement. These young people have demonstrated just how talented they are and can now look forward to a great career in the future.
PICTURES:Plumbing students with tutor Andy Martin and the rose sculptures