Persimmon’s bricklaying apprentice David Mears is today celebrating after being named Building Plymouth’s Construction Apprentice of the Year.
At an awards ceremony at Plymouth’s Market Hall, David was recognised for the quality of his work on site and the adversity he has overcome to become an apprentice with the business.
The 19 year-old joined Persimmon Cornwall and West Devon in January 2022 and had a very limited understanding of bricklaying, but within a little over 12 months, he has shown super levels of dedication and commitment which have seen his skills develop ‘exponentially’.
Over the last seven years David has overcome many personal challenges, and is now firmly focused on building himself a bright future within the construction industry.
On receiving the recognition last night David said:
“I feel very honoured to receive the Apprentice of the Year award and I’m very proud of what I have achieved so far during my apprenticeship.
“I thoroughly enjoy working for Persimmon Homes and I’m looking forward to developing my skills and gaining further experience, so I can become a qualified and competent tradesman.”
David’s desire to learn and be the best he can be are just some of the attributes that have made him stand out from the rest.
In recent months David has become an ambassador for Persimmon’s apprenticeship programme and attended career fayres to help promote and encourage young people into the construction industry.
David is also a student at City College Plymouth, one of many organisations that Persimmon Homes partner with to provide apprenticeship opportunities.
Whether it’s in the classroom or on the construction site those who know him say David always gives a hundred percent.
Commenting on the award, Regional Apprentice Manager, Andy Wallis, said:
“I’m absolutely delighted that David has been recognised as Trade Apprentice of the Year for Building Plymouth. David has worked exceptionally hard and overcome many challenges to get to this point and he should be proud of his achievements.
“I’m looking forward to supporting David for the remainder of his apprenticeship and his career with Persimmon Homes”
As a leading employer in the South West, Persimmon is firmly committed to the training and development of new entrants to the industry.
Adam Church, Managing Director for Persimmon Homes Cornwall and West Devon said:
“We are thrilled that David has won the Apprentice of the Year award. It is testimony to all the hard work that he has put in and the exemplary attitude he has shown since joining our apprenticeship scheme a little over a 12 month ago.
“I believe it also demonstrates Persimmon’s commitment as a leading housebuilder to nurture and encourage local talent, providing them with the skills and knowledge to thrive within the construction industry.
“On behalf of myself and everyone at Persimmon Homes Cornwall & West Devon we once again want to congratulate David on his achievement.”
