We’re incredibly proud of the efforts of our very own Katie Thornton, Director of Compliance and Administration at The Window Company (Contracts), who received a personal letter this week from Sir Gerry Berragon, CEO of the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education, congratulating her on the work she has done as chair of the Employer’s Trailblazer group.

This group has been responsible for developing a brand new suite of fenestration apprenticeship standards which will be used for decades to come to train thousands of individuals in fabrication, installation and eventually curtain walling as well.

It has been a momentous effort carried out over more than 18 months developing new standards which will work for both employers and apprentices and which we think will make a major contribution to this industry’s efforts to increase the skills base and attract new, young recruits.

In his letter, Sir Gerry recognised the challenge the group had faced but praised their determination to see the task through. He singled out the group’s volunteer facilitator Thomas Jeavons who worked tirelessly to drive the project through and ensure that the final submission was made on time, and who Katie herself nominated for the Unsung Hero at the G-Awards in recognition of his outstanding efforts.

Work is now underway to prepare the new standards for delivery by employers and training providers across the UK and Katie and her team are continuing to work hard to ensure their success.