Two Channel Islands apprentices have been recognised at a national level for their craftsmanship, placing them among the UK’s standout young carpentry talents.

Final-year carpentry and joinery apprentices Gareth Foster, who works at L. Jean & Co in Alderney, and Alex Gill, who is working at R&D De Jersey, were both highlighted by the Institute of Carpenters (IOC).

Under-21 success story

Mr Gill placed first regionally in the under 21 category and third place nationally.

The competition is open to students and apprentices from around 50 British colleges.

This year, participants were asked to manufacture a serving hatch, with the completed pieces being shipped to London for assessment.

Highly commended

Meanwhile, Mr Foster was awarded the Highly Commended Prize in the Third Year Student Awards.

Winners are selected following a detailed assessment by a panel of judges who are looking for exceptional skill and dedication to the carpentry and joinery industry. The awards aim to highlight future talent in the industry.

He also enjoyed success in the IOC’s prestigious Carpenters’ Craft Competition in which he placed first regionally and second nationally in the over-21 category.

“Extremely proud”

The work of both apprentices is now on display in The Guernsey Institute’s carpentry workshop.

Jacques Perree, Lecturer in Carpentry and Joinery at TGI, said the group was “extremely proud” of the pair.

“These results reflect the talent and commitment of our apprentices and their employers/mentors to developing the next generation of industry professionals,” he said, going on to add that the latest achievements add to a lengthening line of Channel Islanders.

“Our apprentices have excelled in these competitions over the past few years with Clement Le Pelley winning last year’s national Carpenters’ Craft Competition and Jordan Mechem coming second in 2023,” he said.

“Congratulations Gareth and Alex and well done to all the students across the country for their achievements.”

Chris Torode, Director of Apprenticeships at TGI added: “These prestigious awards are a testament to the skills that our apprentices develop through their training with TGI. It’s such an achievement for them to have gained these fantastic results and being at the top of their profession at a national level.”

The competition was sponsored by The Institute Of Carpenters, Rainleaf-Pallman, Medite SmartPly, Reisser Ltd, and Ironmongery Direct.