The Apprentice Paperhanger of the year competition takes place to demonstrate the skills that employers and colleges are developing for the future of the decorating industry. It encourages excellence from the start and trainee decorators get the chance to showcase their skills at the annual Apprenticeship Paperhanger of the Year Competition.
The Apprentice Paperhanger of the year competition takes place to demonstrate the skills that employers and colleges are developing for the future of the decorating industry. It encourages excellence from the start and trainee decorators get the chance to showcase their skills at the annual Apprenticeship Paperhanger of the Year Competition.
The competition was held earlier this year in Doncaster, with the five winners being announced at the PDA (Painting and Decorating Association) Gala Dinner in November at The Stratford Manor Hotel, Stratford upon Avon.
North Kent College student, Cameron Bonthron started on a level one full-time course at the College and then progressed onto an Apprenticeship programme with Axis Europe. He was one of the three who made it to the final presentation due to the skills he demonstrated during the competition and went on to secure the senior runner-up position in this year’s contest.
Karen Wyatt, Head of Curriculum for Construction and Built Environment said, ‘Wallpapering was something that Cameron shied away from and couldn't grasp. However, with the confidence and skills he developed through the College and with his mentor at Axis, Michael Burke, Cameron has proven to himself the limits he can achieve if given the opportunities too. I am very proud of Cameron’s achievements.’
Cameron Bonthron said, “What I got out of the competition was being able to show and use the skills I've learnt through work and my time at college in a controlled environment. It was a good feeling to see my work being recognised for an award showing the hard work I put in was to a high standard.’
He continued, ‘I would recommend the competition especially if you’re looking for a challenge but to also have fun in a competitive environment’
