Elliot Julian, from Cornwall College in St Austell, has been announced at the HIP Learner of the Year. Elliot (pictured above) received the accolade after competing against six other finalists during a two-day practical test which gave some of the country’s top plumbing students a chance to show off their installation skills. The event, which was hosted by Worcester Bosch, followed a series of regional heats to select the final seven competitors and offered the opportunity to win thousands of pounds worth of prizes, including tools and branded merchandise from sponsoring companies.
Elliot, who was runner-up of the 2022 competition, decided to see if he could go one step further this year and his efforts were rewarded by being the clear winner this time around. On hearing his name called out as the 2023 winner, Elliot said: “I’m absolutely buzzing! It’s been an awesome competition. I’ve really enjoyed it. I’ve learned so much and it’s been really good to meet other people my age who are really into their job too.”
Head adjudicator Jerry Whiteley from the CIPHE and his fellow judges were all impressed by the standard of work from the young students, but Elliot’s attention to detail and confidence in his own ability gave him the cutting edge this time around.
“The quality of the work of these seven finalists demonstrates that the future of plumbing is in very capable hands,” said Jerry. “The judging criteria is exceptionally strict with all jointing techniques assessed, levels checked and pipe bends measured for accuracy. Elliot carried out an outstanding piece of work and was also the first to complete the task. Each of the learners worked tirelessly over the two days and demonstrated great aptitude. Their lecturers should be extremely proud.”
Last year’s winner, Ruben Duggan, who later this year will be representing the UK in this year’s EuroSkills competition, was on hand to lend some moral support to the finalists and says he was glad to be an observer rather than a participator this time around: “I remember what it’s like and it’s pretty tough working against the clock over the two days, but it’s a great competition and, as well as the prestige of the title itself, there’s some really good prizes for the winners.”
Louie Diver, from Cambridge Regional College, was announced as this year’s runners-up and, alongside Elliot, was presented with his award in front of representatives from competition sponsors: Worcester Bosch, Wolseley Plumb Parts, Milwaukee, Aalberts, Kingspan, Triton, Watersafe, Saniflo, Wilo, Stelrad, CIPHE, Scruffs, Yorkshire Copper Tube, Talon and WD-40.
For more information, please visit: https://www.hip-magazine.co.uk/loy-23-winner/
