Sunderland College apprentice John Scott was shortlisted in the Apprenticeship of the Year category at the Sunderland Echo Business Excellence Awards.
John, who is working at Persimmon Homes, made it through to the final five at the annual ceremony in November, which recognise and reward businesses and the vital role that they play in the North East’s economic success.
Sunderland College also sponsored the Employer of the Year award on the evening, held at the Stadium of Light.
John said: “I have loved my apprenticeship as I have learned so much about the Bricklaying trade both in college and from my mentor at Persimmon Homes.
“My skills have been nurtured to be the best they can be, enabling me to represent Sunderland College both locally and nationally at Bricklaying competitions. I would recommend studying an apprenticeship at Sunderland College to anyone.”
John also represented the North East in the Guild of Bricklayers national finals in Tamworth as part of a World Skills UK pilot. Each year the organisation – founded in 1932 with the aims of promoting and maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship in Brickwork – hosts competitions at Senior, Junior and Schools levels with a National Final bringing together the winners from each of the regional events.
Jimmy Stobbart, Lecturer and Programme Leader for Multi Skill Construction & Building Services added: “I am delighted for John. He has given 100% to his studies and totally embraced the ethos of World Skills UK showing excellent resilience, skills, mind set and determination.
“I have no doubt that he will have a long and successful career in the Bricklaying industry.”
Michael Johnson, Regional Apprenticeship Manager for the Northeast, Durham and Teesside at Persimmon Homes, said: “It’s John’s dedication to his learning that’s sets him apart. He has demonstrated a drive and determination to succeed.
“John’s accomplishments will inspire others to join the construction industry.”
World Skills UK is an independent charity and a partnership between employers, education and governments, using international best practice to raise standards in apprenticeships and technical education so more young people and employers succeed.
Sunderland College, as part of college group EPNE, receives an Outstanding rating across the board in its latest Ofsted inspection.
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Sunderland College held their third Childcare Conference recently, giving students rich experiences to help inform their next steps.
December 2, 2025
Sunderland College and Sunderland Culture worked together in partnership with students to showcase their creative talents at an exhibition.
November 21, 2025
98% of our students progress to a positive destination
(*Destination data for Sunderland College students aged 16-18, academic year 2017/18).
Our achievement rates are well above the national average.
We are the College of the Year.
(*Top college nationally for BTECs, Pearson 2019)
100% of our HND and HNC students progressed to employment or further study.
(*Destination data, academic year 2016/17, HNC 19+)
We have recently invested £50 million in our facilities.
