Exeter College apprentice Jordan Picot is competing against the very best in the country after wowing judges with his skills.

Jordan, who is from Newton Abbot, is taking part in the National Final of SkillPLUMB at the WorldSkills UK competition at the NEC in Birmingham from 15-18th November 2017. He won his place after impressing the judges in regional heats – where he won the Southern heat.

WorldSkills UK brings together apprentices and young people from across the UK to compete to be the best in their chosen vocation. The competition encourages students and apprentices to be ambitious in their pursuit for excellence, while equipping them with lifelong, world-class skills.

Jordan, 20, is a Level 3 Advanced Apprentice in Domestic Plumbing and Heating, and is employed by specialists in sustainable energy, Go Green Engineering. He said: “I am a little bit nervous. I think it will hit me when I get there at the competition where everyone will be there. I’d be over the moon if I win, but we will have to see!

“Whatever happens, to get through to the finals has given me a massive boost in confidence and has helped me learn a lot of good skills.

“I’d certainly recommend Exeter College if you are considering an apprenticeship. It has been a fantastic experience for me, has opened up doors, and has allowed me to start my career. I would have never have believed you if you’d have told me I’d be in a national competition if you told me a few years ago!”

John Laramy, Exeter College Principal and Chief Executive, said: “As a college, our vision is to be exceptional. This achievement by Jordan is exceptional and shows the talent of our students and impact of the strong partnership that exists between our employers and our talented college staff.

“I would like to congratulate Jordan, as well as thank his employer and the college staff for their critical support. Good luck at the finals Jordan, we will all be rooting for you!”

Chris Bennett, who is Jordan’s tutor at the college, said: “We are very proud of Jordan. He has proved his quality by attending both of the national plumbing competition finals this year.

“Jordan and his employer deserve all the credit they get as they both support the need for high standards and excellence in the plumbing industry.”

Rob Woodger, Head of Faculty, Construction & the Built Environment, added: “Jordan has earned his place in the national final by showcasing his skills in the regional heats earlier this year.

“Jordan has prepared well for the national final which will be a fantastic opportunity for him to demonstrate his skills on the national stage. We wish Jordan the very best of luck and would like to take this opportunity to recognise and thank Jordan’s apprenticeship employer and tutors for their support.”

Go Green Engineering are specialists in sustainable energy solutions, designing and installing energy efficient systems, ranging from solar thermal hot water systems, heat pumps and biomass systems.

Award winning apprenticeships at Exeter College

Apprenticeship are an exciting alternative to full time study and offer an opportunity to gain work experience, develop industry specific skills and get qualified – all while getting paid. We are placing record numbers of young people into our award winning Apprenticeship programme year on year.

To find out more, visit our Open Event on Tuesday, November 14th, 5-8pm. Register online today