A BUDDING mechanical engineer has beaten off national competition to secure a spot on a top apprenticeship scheme.
James, who has just completed his GCSEs, is set to join the ranks at Sulzer, a global fluid engineering and chemical processing firm, as a trainee mechanical engineer.
The 16-year-old Lyndon School pupil battled through a field of 80 other applicants, most over the age of 18, to be offered the three-year fully-funded apprenticeship.
James said: “This is not just an educational opportunity, but a career for life. Sulzer make coils for cruise ships and there will also be opportunities for travel.”
During the stringent application process with Make UK, the Manufacturers’ Organisation, James was praised for his interview performance and technical skill – including his knowledge of the 3D computer package SketchUp, which is already available at Lyndon School and will be used in the apprenticeship next year.
At the end of his course, James will be fully qualified to work in one of the country’s most exciting sectors – which includes aerospace, biotechnology, cyber and robotics.
Jodie Dennis, curriculum lead for Art, Design and Technology at Lyndon School, said: “James went through a gruelling application and interview process with peers older than him.
“He was able to demonstrate the problem-solving and innovative thinking we have seen in class.
“We are so proud of James and wish him every success for his future studies.”
