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ICI Paints AkzoNobel shows commitment to new talent
ICI Paints AkzoNobel has demonstrated its commitment to supporting new talent in the painting and decorating industry through its sponsorship of the London 2012 Apprentice Skills Showcase. The competition, run by the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA), brought together talent from eight London colleges and featured challenges across seven disciplines, including plumbing, tiling and decorating.
The Apprentice Skills Showcase competition was held at the construction training centre at Hackney Community College, and was designed to highlight the importance of vocational training in the run up to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. During the event, competitors were set challenges, each designed by a trade professional, which would test their skills and creativity.
The painting and decorating task was developed and judged by Matt Gray, Technical Training Consultant at ICI Paints AkzoNobel, and required contestants to paint a Union Jack flag and gold leafing onto a surface. The competitors were then rated for their accuracy, speed, and quality of finish. The painting and decorating challenge was won by Richard Moore from Hackney Community College.
As well as being an opportunity to stress the role of on-the-job training, the event offered the young people access to possible future career opportunities. All employers from the Olympic Park were invited to the competition, and around 300 contractors from a wide range of trades were in attendance. Other guests included Jennette Arnold, Deputy Leader of the London Assembly, and New Zealand Rugby, legend Zinzan Brooke.
Commenting on the competition and the support of ICI Paints AkzoNobel, Bob Noseda, Supply Side Manager for the London 2012 Apprentice Programme, Olympic Delivery Authority, said: "The competition was a fantastic opportunity to showcase and celebrate young talent in the construction industry, and has led to some long-term career opportunities for the contestants. Since the event, many of those who took part have been invited to company open days and are now exploring their first steps in their respective trades. ICI Paints AkzoNobel provided outstanding support during and in the run up to the event, and made a significant contribution to its overall success and value."
The event at Hackney Community College is the second London 2012 Apprentice Skills Showcase to be sponsored by ICI Paints AkzoNobel. The first took place at Barking and Dagenham College in October 2011.
