Former PVC student secures apprenticeship

We are extremely proud to bring you some news regarding Isaac Robinson, one of the most impressive and talented students we've had the pleasure of teaching in recent years.

Isaac has bagged himself a dream role working at JFN Integrated Solutions, based at the Red Scar Business Park in Preston, where he embarks on a three-year apprenticeship training course.

Our 'Student of the Year 2024', Isaac finished his studies with us in July this year and showed how versatile and skillful he is, applying himself to all the different trades and disciplines with great enthusiasm and dedication.

Photo caption: Martin Grayston (PVC), Isaac Robinson, Louise Stephens (JFN)

Isaac, 17, from Preston, also took home the 'Outstanding Achievement in Plastering Award' and consistently wowed the tutors at PVC with his wonderful attitude, politeness, and kind spirit.

Isaac left PVC with a well-deserved City & Guilds Level 1 Diploma in Construction, and over the next few years at JFN he will be working towards a Level 3 Fire Emergency and Security Systems Technician qualification.

Through a combination of on-the-job learning with JFN, and classroom-style education (provided by Warrington-based Skills for Security), Isaac will be finding out how to install and maintain electronic systems (such as fire alarms and intruder alarms) to protect homes and businesses.

Everyone at PVC is so thrilled with what Isaac has gone on to achieve, and it truly shows you what an amazing springboard to success PVC can be for young people.

Martin Grayston, Centre Manager at Preston Vocational Centre, said:

“Isaac is one of the politest, most respectful young people we have been lucky enough to teach at Preston Vocational Centre.

“Every day, the tutors would arrive for that day’s learning and ask me eagerly: ‘Who’s got Isaac today?’ They absolutely loved him – he had a great heart, a wonderful enthusiasm, and his skills were second to none.

“Some of the tiling work he did just for practice hasn’t ever been taken down, because it’s so good we’ve kept it as an example of what it should look like. He was brilliant with his fellow students, too; he’d step in to help others, he’d show them how to do things, and he was an absolute role model for everyone.

“Promoting strong values is so important for us at PVC: you work hard, you make a positive first impression, you do the job properly, and you are thorough, clean and tidy. Isaac naturally shows all these qualities – we are so proud of him.

“He’s a model student and this opportunity with JFN is well-deserved and exciting for him. He will be a brilliant asset for JFN.”

Isaac Robinson, Fire Emergency and Security Systems Technician Apprentice at JFN, said:

“I am really enjoying it at JFN. I especially like working with Roy (Roy Weyer, Fire & Security Engineer at JFN) because he shows me everything up close and explains what he’s doing, rather than just telling me. I tend to learn a lot better this way; his methods are really suited to me, and I find I’m able to pick things up quickly and easily.

“Everything I learned at PVC has been so important for my development and it’s helping me now in my new apprenticeship. Most of all, the respect and manners that Martin and his tutors instilled in me has been so important because those things go such a long way in the world of work.

“I want to thank Martin and all the tutors at PVC for guiding me – not only in mastering technical skills, but also in showing me so much respect and confidence. I’ve learned a lot about myself – thank you PVC.”

Roy Weyer, Fire & Security Engineer at JFN, said:

“I’ve known Isaac for only a matter of weeks and yet I’m already incredibly impressed with his attitude. He’s got a lot of determination, and this will be a valuable asset throughout his apprenticeship. He’s a great lad to work with – he’s kind, polite, respectful, and we really enjoy having him here. He’s going to be a great engineer.”

Louise Stephens, Head of People at JFN, added:

“Isaac made such a good impression when he attended for his interview, his manners were impeccable. He has been wonderful with everyone, and his level of customer service is of a high standard. He is a fabulous employee, a great team player, with an enthusiasm to learn. We wish Isaac all the very best with his apprenticeship and future career.”

What’s next for Isaac now? Isaac said:

“I’ve got three years with JFN during my apprenticeship and I’m focused on staying with them, long-term. I’m excited to see where my career takes me.”

Have you been inspired by reading Isaac's success story?

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Find out how to support us at: https://www.prestonvocationalcentre.co.uk/supporting-us