Apprentice Joseph Clinches Top Prize

Plumbing apprentice Joseph Little is celebrating after clinching a prestigious regional award.

The 20- year-old was crowned Advanced Apprentice of the Year winner at the Regional Apprenticeship Awards.

Joseph joined South Tyneside Council Housing Services in September 2017 and has completed the Level 2 Diploma in Plumbing and Heating. He is now doing a Level 3 Gas and Appliance NVQ.

He said: "I didn't expect to be nominated for the award, much less to be shortlisted and then go on to win!

I was really pleased and proud, especially given the number of apprentices that were nominated across the region.

"I really enjoy my role at work, getting to try lots of different aspects and feel that I get a lot of support from the company."

Joseph is also an Apprentice Ambassador and helps to promote apprenticeships by attending events and sharing his experience with others.

Cllr Mark Walsh, Lead Member for Housing and Transport, said: "Joseph is a real asset to Housing Services and we're delighted that he has received this recognition.

"Joseph was nominated by two of his managers as they feel he always goes out of his way to help, has a great ability to diagnose and resolve plumbing problems and is always willing to stay late if there is a problem.

"He's a fantastic role model.

He added: "Apprenticeships are a proven way to develop young people - it's a long-term view we hold here at South Tyneside Council Housing Services.

"This not only ensures our future as an organisation but provides young people within our community with the start to develop hand on skills and knowledge of working life."