Kier Sheffield apprentice bricklayer, Nathan Fairfax, is celebrating being named runner up in the Recognising Excellence & Achievement in Training & Development Award for the South Yorkshire Construction Training Group (SYCTG).

Fending off competition from across the region, Nathan's hard work and commitment were recognised at a special ceremony at Cutlers Hall, where he was presented with the award by Nick Sangwin, newly appointed Chair of sponsors the National Federation of Builders.

Now in the third year of his apprenticeship with Kier Sheffield, Nathan has a proud record of achievements. He first became acquainted with Kier while taking part in the City Stewardship Programme, during which he proved to be a hard worker and good team player; these skills helped Nathan gain an apprenticeship with Kier in 2011.

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He was then nominated for Kier Sheffield's Apprentice of the Year for his customer care skills, and in 2012 was awarded Top First Year Bricklaying Apprentice by Sheffield College for his outstanding work and attitude. Later this year, Nathan is also expected to achieve his NVQ Level 2 ahead of the rest of his class.

Kier Regional Operations Director, Phil Oades, said: "Through our 'People and Places' plan, Kier Sheffield is actively investing in its employees to ensure they are continuously enhancing their expertise, providing the best service to our customers.

"We are constantly looking to raise the skill level of our employees through training and internal investment; Nathan is a shining example of how this programme has been successfully implemented across our workforce. He is a very talented bricklayer and a true asset to the team. His commitment and can-do attitude make him a real favourite with his colleagues and customers and he is undoubtedly recognised throughout Kier as an exemplar apprentice, team member and colleague.

"This fantastic recognition is very well deserved and we look forward to seeing his experience and skills continue to grow."

(CD/JP)