A FORMER Barry Comprehensive School pupil has scooped Wales’ leading training provider’s Outstanding Learner of the Year Award.

Jewson apprentice, Jake Barrett, is one of over 50 apprentices that has successfully completed their Customer Service Apprenticeship programme through ACT Training and wowed judges with his skill and drive to succeed.

Since starting his apprenticeship the 22-year-old has progressed tremendously at Jewson, the UK’s leading supplier of sustainable timber and building materials.

Jake said: “I was really surprised to have won ACT’s Outstanding Learner of the Year Award. It’s a great achievement for me and it just proves that you can achieve whatever you put your mind to. I couldn’t have done it without the support I received from my line manager Lee and the rest of my colleagues at Jewson.”

Ceri Rowland, Jake’s Assessor nominated him for the award. Ceri said: “I nominated Jake because has he had demonstrated fantastic commitment to his qualification, even when he found tasks difficult, he demonstrated excellent willing and went above and beyond to complete assessments. Jake has put 100 per cent into his qualification which has resulted in him becoming an exemplary employee at Jewson. It has been an absolutely pleasure to work with Jake and I am thrilled that he has won this award - he really deserves it."

Jake has been an outstanding apprentice and everyone in Jewson has enjoyed working with him, supporting him and watching his skills develop.

His line manager Lee Jones said: “From everyone’s point of view at the Barry branch, we are very proud of Jake. He has excelled all our expectations and has become an invaluable member of the team. He’s a very hard working individual and has really made the most of his apprenticeship.”