Harlow College Level 3 Plumbing and Domestic Heating apprentice Sidney Drake narrowly missed out on a place in the HIP Learner of the Year 2022 Grand Final, after a tense regional heat in which he was runner up. 

The HIP Learner of the Year competition is an annual event that takes place across six regions of England and Wales in search of the best up-and-coming industry talent. Level 2 and 3 plumbing and heating students from colleges nationwide compete in regional heats, giving a live practical installation for the chance to win the coveted award.

For his regional heat Sidney travelled to Farnborough College of Technology (Aldershot campus) where his practical installation included measuring and fixing components, soldering, bending and cutting copper and plastic pipe, whilst maintaining a limited amount of wastage.

Sidney’s tutor Andy Noades, who also travelled to the regional heat, said that the standard of work produced was unbelievable and it was clear how much confidence Sidney had gained from the experience. “It has shown him that he is working at a high level within the plumbing industry. I believe it was extremely tight between Sidney and the eventual winner, and I know Sidney’s employer, Phd (London) Limited felt the same.”

Declan Jackson, Assistant Academy Manager for Plumbing at the College, said: “We as a department are very proud of Sidney’s efforts and I believe he will go on to achieve great things in his career. This competition is great for our learners to showcase their abilities and we will definitely be entering learners next year.”