Persimmon’s Apprentices Crowned ‘Team of the Year’ at Cornwall College's Apprenticeship Games

Teamwork is a vital skill required by anyone wanting to work within the construction industry and it seems a group of Persimmon apprentices are already nailing it.

On 9th February, Emily Baker (Apprentice Carpenter), John Richards (Improver Bricklayer), Tayode Adewole (Apprentice MO) and James France (Apprentice MO) took part in Cornwall College’s annual Apprenticeship Games after being entered as a team by Persimmon Homes Cornwall and West Devon.

The competition which was held during National Apprenticeship Week pitched teams of apprentices from various different employers in the region against each other in a series of events that would test both their mental and physical capabilities whilst also reflecting the different sectors that offer apprenticeships.

Some of the events included in the games were Bricklaying skills, a choreographed Dance off, a military problem solving challenge and gateaux decorating/cocktail making.

During the course of the day, Persimmon’s fabulous four wowed the judges by overcoming all of the challenges through working as a team, demonstrating excellent communication skills and each of them providing leadership in some way.

After an agonising wait for the results, the team from Persimmon Homes Cornwall and West Devon was crowned ‘Apprentice Team of the Year’.

Andy Wallis, Regional Apprenticeship Manager who mentored the team throughout the day said:

“I’m absolutely thrilled that the team won the Apprenticeship Games and were crowned ‘Apprentice Team of the Year’.

“There were events included that challenged every member of the team in some way and to see them work together to overcome these to be successful was amazing.”

Emily, John, Tayode and James were presented the winner’s trophy by the Head of Apprenticeships and External Engagement for Cornwall College, Lorna Martin.

Following the success of Persimmon Apprentices Adam Church, Managing Director for Persimmon Homes Cornwall and West Devon said:

“We are very proud of Emily, John, Tayode and James on being crowned ‘Team of the Year’ at Cornwall College's Apprenticeship Games

“To win such a coveted accolade demonstrates how far they have all come since embarking on their apprenticeship journey with Persimmon.

“This particular award is also very important as it demonstrates the right kind of attributes required to work within the construction industry which goes further than just physical skillset.

“I’m sure this is just the beginning of a bright career for all of them.”

The Apprenticeship Games will return next year and Persimmon Homes Cornwall and West Devon will be selecting another group of apprentices to take part to defend the title of ‘Apprentice Team of the Year’!