After a nationwide search, a student has been awarded highly commended in Screwfix’s Trade Apprentice 2018 Award.

Jessica Middleton, 23, from Borehamwood, competed in a series of tasks against nine other finalists including a one-to-one interview in front of a panel of judges involving representatives from Screwfix and Google.

She is currently working towards her level two plumbing and domestic heating qualification at Uxbridge College.

Ms Middleton said: “Taking part in the trade apprentice competition has been a fantastic experience. I am passionate about my trade and would love to go on to complete my Gas Safe Qualification.

“I want to be able to build my own house from scratch, but in the meantime I’m focussing on my future development to become multi-skilled with the aim of providing a complete 360-degree design and fitting service for kitchens and bathrooms.

“I hope to be an ambassador to others, to inspire students making them aware of careers in trades and the benefits of going down the apprenticeship route.”

Caroline Welsh, director of brand and marketing said: “The competition reaches thousands of apprentices and trainees who are at the start of their careers and encourages them to strive for excellence and achieve the very highest professional standards.

“We were impressed with Jessica’s loyalty to her trade and how she recognised the need for technology in trades in the future. She is clearly a great ambassador not only for apprenticeships, but women in the trade. We look forward to hearing about her future success.”