02/05/2025
The UK Government is considering some significant amendments to building regulations which will impact BWF Members and the wider woodworking and joinery manufacturing industry. A consultation of ...
An award winning joinery apprentice will be the sole representative at the renowned WorldSkills Americas competition in Colombia this week.
Chris Lake, a 19 year old apprentice at GS Haydon & Son and 2012 winner of the British Woodworking Federation (BWF) Apprentice of the Year award, was chosen to be a guest contender at the prestigious competition.
The event is exclusively for countries and regions in North America, South America, Central America and the Caribbean and is the first time a contender has been allowed to compete outside the member countries.
Didac, a leading training provider for the Furniture and Wood industry, was approached by ProSkills and the British Council in Colombia less than a fortnight ago to identify a strong candidate to participate in the Cabinetmaking category.
Jon Gibson, Didac Managing Director, said:
“This has been a real rollercoaster ride with such limited time to get things together but is an opportunity we definitely didn’t want to miss.
“Chris was an obvious choice for the competition. He’s recently started his advanced apprenticeship with us and I know he’s capable of the challenge ahead.”
Jon will also be attending the event to deliver presentations on UK apprenticeships and vocational training.
Jonathan Ledger, Managing Director of ProSkills, said:
“I am really pleased that our positive relationship with British Council staff in Colombia allows us to support such a prestigious event.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity for both the apprentice and training provider to gain valuable global experience across different cultures. We wish all the competitors in WorldSkills Americas all the best of luck and wish the organising team a successful event.”
The competition takes place between the 1 and 6 April and Chris will be required to create a piece of furniture using the materials provided. Chris will be judged on his interpretation of drawings, safe working practices, preparation of surfaces, jointing and assembly, among other essential joinery skills.
Graham Haydon, Director of GS Haydon & Son, said:
“We’re very excited about this opportunity for Chris, it’s a once in a life time experience and we were very keen for him to go. He’s never done anything like this before and making a furniture piece will be a real challenge for him, as his speciality is normally windows and doors.
“Chris is really looking forward to it and I hope this experience will inspire him.”
Dave Campbell, BWF training manager, said:
“We are delighted to hear that a BWF member has been asked to participate in such a huge event and under such exceptional circumstances. It’s a massive achievement for Chris and we have every confidence in him. Good luck Chris!”
