At Preston Vocational Centre, we are always proud to share the journeys of our students. Max Jones is an outstanding example of what is achievable through hard work and commitment.
Max was awarded our Student of the Year 2025. His natural ability shone through in every subject, especially joinery. He often went above and beyond, volunteering extra time to support his Joinery Tutor in sessions and setting a great example for others. His dedication also earned him the Outstanding Achievement in Carpentry and Joinery Award.
During his studies, Max secured a work placement with CCH Joinery, where he gained valuable hands-on-experience in the industry. The placement allowed him to gain insight into the real-world working environment and develop essential trade skills.
After completing two years at PVC, Max left with a well-deserved City & Guilds Level 1 Extended Certificate in Construction and an aspiration to excel in joinery. His efforts and the skills he developed both at PVC and during his placement helped him secure an apprenticeship with CCH Joinery.
Max shared that the combination of technical and workplace skills that he developed both at PVC and the placement set him out for a confident start in his apprenticeship:
“At PVC I learned how to chisel efficiently. Now, at CCH I find making door sets so easy.”
Max has retained a positive outlook for his future, with a motivation to continue to excel in joinery. Max added:
“Winning both these awards shows that hard work pays off. I believe that vocational training for young people is the future.
The joinery award made me happy to show my grandad that the skills he taught me have paid off.”
Martin Grayston, Centre Manager at PVC, expressed his pride, commenting:
“CCH Joinery are a highly regarded company and I was very confident that Max would be well looked after during his placement.
I have recently heard that he is excelling with the company and it was a great moment when he came back to PVC with a mentor from CCH to fit our new front door!
I am so pleased for Max and wish him every success for the future."