Our annual awards evening took place last night (10th July) to honour the hard work, dedication and achievements of our learners over the past academic year.
Based in the heart of Preston on St Paul’s Road, we provide practical, hands-on training and support for young people across a wide range of construction trades, including plastering, joinery, painting and decorating, plumbing, tiling, brickwork and more. The centre plays a vital role in helping learners gain real-world skills, boost their confidence and take their next step into apprenticeships, further training or employment in the construction industry.
The awards evening brought together students, families, staff and sponsors to celebrate a year of hard work, progress and achievement. During the ceremony, learners received their City & Guilds qualifications, with several also being honoured with highly commended certificates for their exceptional performance, commitment and personal growth.
Award winners received a certificate, trophy and gift voucher, recognising their success and helping set them on their way to a rewarding career in construction.
One standout student was Max Jones, who not only picked up the Outstanding Achievement in Carpentry and Joinery Award, but was also named Student of the Year. Max’s determination, enthusiasm and high-quality work made a lasting impression on tutors and peers alike. His achievement is made even more impressive as he has secured an apprenticeship with CHH Joinery, taking the first big step in his career.
Martin Grayston, Centre Manager at Preston Vocational Centre, said:
"Our annual awards is my favourite night of the year, not just for our team at PVC, but for the students, their families and everyone involved in their journey. It is a celebration of what can be achieved when young people are given the right support, encouragement and opportunities.
“Congratulations to all our students who have worked so hard this year and gained a recognised qualification, I am so proud of you all. This year’s group have blown us away with their hard work, resilience and sheer talent. Many of them joined us unsure of themselves, lacking direction or confidence. To see how far they have come now is what makes our work so rewarding.
“Max Jones, our Student of the Year, has been an outstanding example of what is possible. He has excelled in all areas, especially joinery and his attitude has been second to none. Max is not only technically skilled, but mature, reliable and a great role model for others. We are thrilled he has secured an apprenticeship with CHH Joinery, he has a really bright future ahead of him.
“For me personally, it is always emotional to reflect on how far each learner has come. To anyone wondering whether vocational training can change a young person’s future our awards night is living proof.
“Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing team here at PVC, our dedicated tutors, our partners and sponsors. Your continued support helps us inspire the next generation of construction professionals.”
Rob Wakefield, Chief Executive at Community Gateway, said:
“Preston Vocational Centre is a shining example of what can be achieved when we invest in young people and their potential. As CGA’s charitable subsidiary, PVC reflects our values in action, building skills, confidence and brighter futures right here in our community.
“It is inspiring to see how the team at PVC go above and beyond to create a supportive environment where learners can thrive and we are incredibly proud of what PVC continue to achieve.”
Mick Higgins, Chair of the Board at Preston Vocational Centre, said:
“It was an absolute privilege to be part of this year’s awards evening. Evenings like these remind us exactly why Preston Vocational Centre exists.
“The passion, talent and determination shown by our learners this year has been nothing short of incredible. Watching each of them walk up to collect their award knowing the effort they have put in was moving.
“Huge credit must go to the PVC team, supporters and sponsors, without their support none of this would be possible.”
Click here to view our award winners, along with photos and video highlights from the night.
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