Apprentices at a North East-based heating, insulation and renewables company are celebrating after claiming prestigious awards.
Scott Birks and Danny Kent, who are apprentices at 0800 Repair, were recognised at two separate award ceremonies that champion the work and contributions of apprentices across the region.
Scott, 28, was named Intermediate Plumbing Apprentice of the Year 2019 at New College Durham’s Apprenticeship Awards, while Danny, 20, won the Skills for Employment Award at Gateshead College’s LearningSkills Awards 2019.
Scott joined the Houghton-le-Spring company in 2017 and, while still studying towards his City and Guilds NVQ Level 2 in Plumbing and Heating apprenticeship, has shown great leadership characteristics and developed into a highly valued member of the team.
Since joining 0800 Repair in August 2018, Danny has grown to become a hardworking member of the team, while studying towards his Level 2 NVQ in Business Administration. He has progressed in the role and grown in confidence, having suffered a setback at the age of 14 when he was diagnosed with Alopecia.
These latest achievements follow a successful year for 0800 Repair, which was named Domestic Heating Contractor of the Year at the 2019 H&V News Awards – the most prestigious and longest running awards ceremony for the construction, heating and plumbing industry.
0800 Repair forms part of Pacifica Group, which is one of the UK’s largest providers of home services and product warranty. The Group handles in excess of 4,500 jobs per week and employs more than 470 staff, including 250 field-based engineers.
Kevin Anderson, Head of Social Housing at Pacifica Group, said: “I am delighted for both Scott and Danny, who have shown continued dedication to their roles and are a credit to the company. They both have very promising careers ahead of them and I’d like to congratulate Scott and Danny on their well-deserved recognition.”
Phil Pallister, Owner and Managing Director of 0800 Repair, added: “Scott and Danny have developed into two of our rising stars and been model apprentices in their relatively short time with 0800 Repair. We are committed to providing opportunities for youngsters who are keen to secure a future within our industry and have been fortunate to develop many apprentices over the years, who have gone on to enjoy successful careers.
“We are incredibly proud of their achievements and I look forward to supporting Scott, Danny as well as our current and all future cohort of apprentices with their careers.”