Congratulations to Abigail Durrell, Highly Commended for The Ron Simmonds Construction Trade Apprentice of the Year Award 2025!
Abigail is undertaking a Level 2 Painting and Decorating apprenticeship, working with Eliza Tay Lady Decorators, and City College Plymouth.
Having completed a Level 1 Diploma in Painting and Decorating in September 2022, Abigail successfully progressed onto a Level 2 apprenticeship where she has become a key member of a small team of decorators. This apprenticeship placement has enabled Abigail to display her creativity in the workplace, where she shows all the attributes of a highly skilled craftsperson.
Nettie Taylor, Owner of Eliza Tay Lady Decorators said: “Abby is a pleasure to teach, her good nature and well-mannered mature attitude are welcomed attributes.”
During the last 18-months, Abigail has shown a high level of enthusiasm and passion for the sector. She has shown an adaptable manner to her work, where she has put her highly skilled talents to good use. Her work has involved both traditional and modern decorating techniques, which require high levels of skill and precision.
Nettie added “The contribution that she has made to her employer as well as promoting female apprentices working in the construction and built environment sector is highly commendable.”
Abigail has proven her willingness to learn and upskill by dedicating large amounts of time to practicing for skills competitions. In April 2024, Abigail showcased her talents when she competed in the Painting and Decorating regional heat of Skillbuild 2024, which was hosted by City College Plymouth. She enjoyed amazing success and was awarded third place for the second year in succession. These efforts did not go unnoticed, and in July 2024 she placed with the sixth highest score in the UK and was invited to compete in the Skillbuild National Final. At the UK National Final, Abigail achieved further success where she was crowned the UK Painting and Decorating champion, ahead of seven other finalists! It’s clear to see why Abigail has been Highly Commended for this award.
Upon receiving the award, Abigail said “Firstly I just want to say thank you so much for this award, I really appreciate it. I love being an apprentice and so the fact that I have been recognised for this is amazing. The best things about an apprenticeship is that you get paid to learn – I really love the practical side but to know that I am continuing to update my knowledge at the same time is really important. I also like the fact that I can represent girls in the industry and the trades, and to be able to show them that it is great fun!! It isn’t always out on a site, I get the chance to work on lots of different types of jobs and meet so many lovely customers – if you are thinking of an apprenticeship – do it!”
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