British Woodworking Federation Awards for Apprentice of the Year Finalist
We are thrilled to announce that our very own Will Garnett has successfully reached the final stage of the BWF British Woodworking Federation Awards for Apprentice of the Year 2023.
This remarkable achievement is a testament to Will’s exceptional talent, dedication, and hard work throughout his apprenticeship journey.
Will Garnett has consistently exceeded expectations in his apprenticeship at Ventrolla Windows. He has a keen eye for detail and takes pride in his work, always striving to produce the highest quality products. He is also a quick learner and is always eager to take on new challenges.
Outstanding achievement
One example of Will’s outstanding achievement was his work on a custom-made window for a client’s historic home. The window was very complex and required a high level of precision. Will worked closely with the client to understand their needs and then carefully crafted the window to their exact specifications. The client was so impressed with Will’s work that they gave him a glowing recommendation.
Safety first attitude
Will always puts safety first in his work. He is always aware of the potential hazards and takes steps to mitigate them. He is also a great team player and is always willing to help out his colleagues.
“A huge CONGRATULATIONS on this amazing achievement. Championing Apprentices is incredibly important to the BWF “
Helen Hewitt, Chief Executive Officer, British Woodworking Federation
“Will has grown and matured into a confident and skilled craftsman with a bright future ahead of him. He is passionate about his trade and has faced every challenge with true grit and determination to be the best he can be. During his time at college, he has made many friends and networked with other professionals in the trade. His timekeeping and attendance were fantastic, and during his time he was always the last student to tidy up and often asked to stay back at the end of the day to get his projects further as he liked to be organised and ahead. As a tutor, you cannot ask for a better attitude towards learning from a student.
Will has proven himself time and time again that he is worthy of the Apprentice of the Year award. I wish him a long and successful career. He is a student, whom all students should aspire to be like.”
Sean Hinchliffe, Lecturer in Architectural Joinery and Furniture Making, Leeds College of Building
Commitment
Will has a strong commitment to his apprenticeship and to Ventrolla Windows. He has excellent attendance and timekeeping, and he is always willing to go the extra mile. He is also a positive and enthusiastic member of the team.
Adding value
Will has already added a lot of value to Ventrolla windows. He is a valuable asset to the team, and he is always willing to share his knowledge and skills with others. He is also always looking for ways to improve the company’s processes and products.
Personal development
Will has made significant personal development in his apprenticeship. He has grown in maturity and responsibility, and he has developed a strong work ethic. He is also a more confident and capable woodworker.
Attitude and eye for detail
“Will has a positive attitude and is always willing to learn new things. He is also a perfectionist and has a keen eye for detail. These qualities make him an excellent apprentice and a valuable asset to Ventrolla windows.
I highly recommend Will Garnett for the BWF Apprentice of the Year Award. He is a talented woodworker with a bright future ahead of him. I am confident that he will continue to make significant contributions to the woodworking industry.”
Trevor Watson, Production Manager, Ventrolla
The Ventrolla Team (L-R: Simon McGeachin, Will Garnett, Ian Flanagan, Jenni Gaunt, Rebecca Holmes, Wayne Greenwood, Jarrod Merchant, Dave Tiller, Paul Thorn and Mollie Girling).
The Big Night – British Woodworking Federation Awards
We had the pleasure of attending the highly anticipated British Woodworking Federation Awards on Friday, 24th November 2023. The event took place at the prestigious Langham Hotel in London, which was adorned with exquisite Christmas decorations.
The evening was nothing short of amazing, with attendees indulging in champagne, savouring delectable Michelin-starred cuisine, and being entertained by talented opera singers. It was truly a night to remember for everyone in attendance.
And the winners are…
Unfortunately, Will was not selected this year, but we are still really proud of him and his achievements. He was recognised for his exceptional talent and made it to the final three contenders in the entire country!
“The total number of entries in this category was tied with a record year last year and the judging was extremely tough, with literally only a few points between the first and third places. I thought it might be useful to share some of the judge’s comments with you:
Will has shown a strong commitment to his apprenticeship and to Ventrolla windows. He is a valuable asset to the team and is willing to share his knowledge and skills
The quality of Will’s work is impressive as is his ability to develop products in line with customer needs. Given the pride he has in his work and willingness to share knowledge, I expect that this will continue for many years to come.
Will has a keen eye for detail in his work and in his commitment to learning and improving his craft skills.
Thank you for entering Will and for supporting the event – he is a testament to the company.”
Robert Allinson, Membership Manager, British Woodworking Federation
While he may not have claimed the top spot, it is an incredible accomplishment to have reached this stage, and we couldn’t be prouder of his achievements. The full list of BWF Annual Awards 2023 winners can be found here.
About the British Woodworking Federation (BWF)
The British Woodworking Federation serves as the trade association for the woodworking and joinery manufacturing industry in the UK. With a membership exceeding 500, comprising manufacturers, distributors, and installers of timber doors, windows, conservatories, staircases, furniture, bespoke creations, interior and architectural joinery, as well as industry suppliers, the federation plays a pivotal role in the £3.8 billion woodworking sector, positioned at the core of UK manufacturing.
The organisation is dedicated to delivering optimal services to its members, ensuring that these services offer the best value for their subscription fees. At the heart of the BWF is its Code of Conduct, which subjects all members to audits. This code is fundamental to the success of attracting and retaining high-quality members, propelling the federation towards its goal of becoming the preferred trade association for every woodworking enterprise in the UK. The primary focus is on ‘Building it Better with Wood,’ advocating for the inherent benefits of wood and assisting members in realising advancements in healthy, sustainable, productive, and safe practices.
Beyond its role as a trade association, the BWF fosters a sense of community by bringing together individuals and companies in the industry. It provides regular opportunities for members to engage with peers, competitors, and suppliers, whether formally through technical and market-focused meetings and working groups or informally at BWF Social events.
The BWF Code of Conduct establishes the principles of good practice for woodworking or joinery businesses.
Ventrolla is proud to be a member of the British Woodworking Federation.