Young carpenter named Apprentice of the Year at West London Business Awards

Talvin McClunie built a model staircase – by himself – and now he’s building a career. The 19-year-old carpentry apprentice has been named 16–29 Apprentice of the Year at the 13th annual West London Business Awards, held at Twickenham Stadium.

Young carpenter Talvin McClunie wins Apprentice of the Year (Photograph courtesy of Peter L. Hughes, – Photoview)

Talvin, who trains at the College of North West London – part of United Colleges Group – impressed judges with his technical skill, dedication and leadership. From excelling in coursework to mentoring junior apprentices on site, he has gone above and beyond throughout his apprenticeship.

Judges praised both his craftsmanship and his positive impact on others: “It's fantastic to see critical craft skills being represented so well. Talvin is clearly outstanding in his work, with a solid career in carpentry ahead of him. He is inspiring people around him in his own right and others are learning from him. A very worthy winner.”

At Size Group, where he works on site, Talvin often stays late to help colleagues and regularly takes on informal leadership roles. John Brennan, Health & Safety Director, said: “Talvin consistently goes the extra mile, taking on high-skill tasks and mentoring junior apprentices. His professionalism and teamwork have been integral to our projects’ success.”

Talvin also excels in college. He has perfect attendance, has achieved distinctions in his coursework and was named Student of the Year in June 2025.

The awards also celebrated United Colleges Group’s Student Union President, Beheshta Bakhtari, who studies at City of Westminster College and was highly commended in the Teenpreneur of the Year category. She’s transformed the Student Union into a social enterprise that funds health and wellbeing classes for students.

Stephen Davis, CEO and Group Principal of United Colleges Group, commented: “We’re delighted to see two of our students recognised at this year’s West London Business Awards. Talvin’s achievements in his apprenticeship and Beheshta’s outstanding leadership as Student Union President rightly impressed the judges.

“Our college is shaping the next generation of leaders in West London. We remain firmly committed to their success and to working closely with our valued local partners to deliver for our community.”

Music students from the college entertained guests during the evening and Stephen Davis also presented an award on the night.

Talvin’s win places him among the region’s most promising young tradespeople and shines a spotlight on the importance of local apprenticeships and skilled trades.

For further information on the United Colleges Group, see www.ucg.ac.uk.