Former Bolton College plumbing and environmental technology apprentice Adam Shepherdson continues to add to his raft of achievements.

Adam, 44, completed his Apprenticeship with Bolton at Home this year, but not before triumphing at two prestigious awards ceremonies.

Earlier this year, Adam won Apprentice of the Year for Construction & Property Industries at the North West Apprenticeship Awards, an event celebrating enterprising learners.

Adam was crowned winner after demonstrating an outstanding work ethic and willingness to learn, and working tirelessly to build his skills. He’d also been a source of inspiration to other Bolton at Home apprentices.  

Adam completed his Apprenticeship at the age of 44 and for Adam, being an apprentice opened many doors. He said: “There’s a common misconception that Apprenticeships are just for young people but this could not be further from the truth.

“I’d always wanted to be a qualified tradesperson and becoming an apprentice was the right way, for me, to go about it.

“On my day in College, I learned new skills that I applied to the actual job. The tutors in College were also very helpful when I was diagnosed with dyslexia; they supported me throughout this.”

And the achievements just kept on coming! At this year’s Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards Adam was recognised nationally, this time as a highly commended apprentice of the year.

As well as being Adam’s employer, Bolton at Home is also a great partner of Bolton College; they were awarded Employer of the Year at the same event in the Charity, Voluntary & Public Services category.

Bolton at Home send the majority of their construction apprentices for training at Bolton College, averaging 80 students a year across various trades, so Adam and the College were very proud that the organisation received this well-deserved accolade.

Ian Hall, plumbing tutor and assessor at Bolton College said: “I couldn't be prouder of Adam's achievements and it is so gratifying to see his dedication, work ethic, and passion for learning rewarded.

“It's very inspiring to see someone embrace learning at any age, proving that Apprenticeships are for everyone.

“Adam's success is a testament to his perseverance and the support of Bolton College and Bolton at Home. We celebrate his well-deserved recognition and look forward to seeing him continue to thrive in his career."

Tony Coe, Adam’s work based assessor, added: “Throughout his Apprenticeship, Adam produced work of the highest quality.

“When working with other younger apprentices in the workplace, he took on a mentor role, passing on his skills as a mature plumber with passionate drive and commitment. This was why he was nominated and successful in gaining the well-deserved awards.”