An apprentice who trains in Suffolk and lives in Cambridgeshire has just been crowned one of the top carpenters in the country.
Harry Kempton, 21, from Swaffham Bulbeck, is on a level three apprenticeship in carpentry craft, working for a company called TD Developments who are based in Burwell.
He recently attended a presentation event hosted by the Institute of Carpenters (IOC) at West Suffolk College, where he was presented with the highly commended student of the year accolade.
IOC President Geoff Rhodes said: “The judges were really impressed with Harry’s work and achievements, and he is to be congratulated. He represents a consistent flow of quality craftspeople over recent years who have come through the excellent educational processes at West Suffolk College – one of our most respected IOC member colleges”
Harry – who studies on a level three carpentry craft qualification at the built environment campus that is part of West Suffolk College – said: “When I found out the news in terms of the award, I was really pleased. I got facetimed and it was really cool. I think it will help get my name out there. I went to a college in Cambridge and got apprentice of the year there – so it’s nice to get another award studying in a different county.
He continued: “I got into carpentry during lockdown. I built a summer house for my dad having never previously picked up a hammer before. I then went to college and I’ve loved it ever since.
“Before this, I didn’t have any hobbies other than playing football.
“In terms of West Suffolk College, this is the best college I have ever been to. They give you confidence and encourage you to work things out yourself. It’s been a step up coming here, it’s relaxed, you get lots of one-to-one and they put trust in you as an individual.
“To say I am one of the best student carpenters in the country feels good. I’m proud of myself. “My family and friends have been really pleased and the support I have had has been amazing.
“My message to other young carpenters about making the most of their skills is just to try things out. Don’t sit back and wait for things to come to you, you’ve got to go out and get it. Try your best and practice makes perfect.
“In terms of the future I want to continue to work with TD Developments and build up my skills and experiences. Maybe further down the line I might start up my own company. But for now, I am happy where I am.”
Shane Thomas is Harry’s boss at TD Developments and he said: “I’m very privileged to have him on board and he is a very good asset to the company. He cares about the job, the people, his colleagues and his clients. He has done very well and I’m very proud of him. We are keen to keep bringing him on. A quick word about the college as they have been very informative and helpful.”
His tutor Brian Tunbridge added: “Harry has been crowned student of the year (highly commended) and that is a fantastic achievement for him and the college. It’s the fifth year in a row that we have won one of the top two awards via the Institute of Carpenters. I think that this really helps demonstrate the quality of both our teaching and our students.”
