Redcar and Cleveland College student Rob Johnson’s plastering talents have been recognised on the world stage. The 22 year-old from Eston represented the UK in the 2015 WorldSkills Championships in Sao Paulo, Brazil and was awarded a Medallion of Excellence, acknowledging that Rob worked to international standards in plastering.
Rob commented: “The competition was extremely tough and the standard of contestants showcased amazing talent. Though I didn’t win a gold medal, I’m really pleased to have been recognised with the Medallion of Excellence award. The competition was extremely hard work and consisted of four days working on plaster boarding and metal framing, finishing, decorative and freestyle skills.
“I was pleased to be awarded full marks on the freestyle element for my plaster globe. The whole experience has been fantastic and the 8,000 volunteers who managed the event did a great job. I’m grateful also to British Gypsum who shipped plaster out for the practice sessions.”
Rob had previously participated in the WorldSkills Championships in 2013 after enrolling on a Level 3 Diploma in Plastering at Redcar and Cleveland College. Through the course he acquired a sound understanding of safe working practices, building methods and key construction technologies.
Acting Principal at Redcar and Cleveland College, John Chance commented: “Rob has done himself proud. He is a very talented individual and a worthy competitor in the championships and we wish him every success in the future.”
Now in its 43rd year, the WorldSkills Championships scheme allows talented students across the country to compete against each other, with the cream of the crop going forward to do battle against the world’s finest in the international heats. This year students from 60 countries and regions in the Americas, Europe, Asia, South Pacific and Africa competed in a wide range of disciplines, from plastering and plumbing to engineering, IT, logistics and the creative arts.
Rob aims to play his part in growing the North Ormesby-based family business, Classic Plaster Moulds, which also employs his mother, brother and sister.
For further information about Redcar & Cleveland College contact 01642 473 132 or visit the websitewww.cleveland.ac.uk