Beal apprentices honoured in the inaugural East Yorkshire Apprenticeship Awards

Erin Symons, 17 and Will Stanley, 19 were both shortlisted in the Construction Apprentice of the Year category, with Erin being named as the award winner and Will also taking home a Special Recognition accolade.  

The awards were hosted by Yorkshire Post’s parent company, National World to celebrate apprentices, employers, colleges, trainers and supporters working across East Yorkshire. 

Level 2 Site Carpentry and Joinery Apprentice Erin joined Beal almost two years ago and has proved it is possible to not only succeed but exceed and be respected in a male dominated industry.

The teenager was nominated for the award by her tutors at Hull Training and Adult Education who say she consistently demonstrates a commitment to delivering high-quality work and she has an enthusiasm for learning and growing. 

Erin said: “It’s an honour to have received the Construction Apprentice of the Year award and I feel really proud of everything I’ve achieved since starting my apprenticeship. A huge congratulations to the amazing finalists who I was shortlisted alongside, especially my Beal colleague Will.

“I’m really grateful for all the help and support that my tutors and colleagues have given me over the last two years which has really helped me to grow and progress. 

“Although joinery is still very male dominated, I was inspired to go into the field by my dad who is also a joiner. 

“I’ve always felt really included and supported by all my colleagues at Beal Homes and I would encourage any other women who are interested in pursuing a career in construction to not let anything hold them back from reaching their goals.”  

Bricklayer Apprentice Will Stanley was also honoured with a Special Recognition Award thanks to his dedication, hard work, and passion.

His tutors at Bishop Burton College say he has transformed from a novice bricklayer to a highly skilled apprentice who has positively impacted the team’s productivity and morale. 

The awards were judged by a panel of industry experts including Hudson Contract Communications Officer and Apprentice Ambassador, Fiona Gamwell, HEY Growth Hub Senior Adviser for Employment and Skills, Carl Southcoat, and Arco Learning and Development Partner, Alice Marren. 

Beal Construction Director Andy Devine said: “Erin and Will are hugely valuable members of the team and it has been a pleasure to see them both excel during their time with us.

“They have both shown dedication to delivering the highest-quality work as well as being committed to learning, and they are both held in high-regard amongst colleagues. 

“On behalf of the whole Beal team I’d like to congratulate both Erin and Will on their achievements. We look forward to supporting them as they continue to progress in their careers.”