Carpentry & Joinery students celebrate BIG success at annual awards

Incredible student winners from across construction specialisms took centre stage at the annual Leeds College of Building BIG (Building Industry Greats) Awards.

Leeds College of Building BIG Awards 2024

Host and TV and radio broadcaster Rich Williams announced 49 award winners at the poignant ceremony held at Leeds United FC Centenary Pavilion, Elland Road, showcasing students and apprentices from the 2023/2024 academic year. 

CEO & Principal Nikki Davis welcomed guests to the drinks reception and dinner before students were recognised for their outstanding achievements. Awards were given for accomplishments such as academic attainment, perseverance, determination, or success at national trade competitions.

Assistant Principal Stephen Connell (left) with Site Carpentry Student of the Year, Billie-Jo Danes Vickers (right)

The Site Carpentry Student of the Year – sponsored by Abrahams & Carlisle – went to Billie-Jo Danes-Vickers. Tutors said: "Billie has shown outstanding work since last September, consistently demonstrating hard work, a positive attitude, and a willingness to assist peers. She received high praise during her work experience and proactively started her own business while seeking an apprenticeship." 

Billie impressed OFSTED with her insights about the college and has now secured an apprenticeship with Leeds City Council, where she's expected to achieve even greater success. The Bench Joinery Student of the Year - sponsored by Leitz Tooling UK - was awarded to Jake Du Feu-Long. Jake was unable to attend the awards ceremony as he recently relocated to Australia to pursue exciting work opportunities, utilising his new qualifications and skills. 

More accolades than ever before were handed out, including 40 trophies and nine Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) QUEST Technician Scholarships of up to £1,000 each. In total, 12 organisations supported the evening, including gold headline sponsor Marlborough Brickwork Ltd.

Nikki Davis, CEO & Principal of Leeds College of Building, commented: “Congratulations to all students and apprentices receiving awards. It’s wonderful to celebrate these incredible achievements, and I wish all winners every success going forward. Thanks also to our amazing staff who go above and beyond in nurturing the next generation of construction and built environment talent.

“I'd also like to thank our sponsors and emphasise how grateful we are for this unwavering support. These excellent industry links are vital for our students who benefit from bespoke training materials, specialist tools and critical hands-on work experience opportunities, which are provided by partner employers.”

Find out more about construction and built environment courses at the next Leeds College of Building Open Event: 

WHEN: Wednesday 16 October (4pm-7.30pm)

WHERE: North Street & South Bank Campuses

REGISTER TO ATTEND: www.lcb.ac.uk/events/open-event-october-2024