DAF apprentices celebrate at annual event

DAF apprentices have celebrated at DAF Trucks’ annual graduation and awards event.

The ceremony took place at the Celtic Manor Resort near Newport.

Daniel Rayfield has been crowned Apprentice of the Year 2019 at DAF Trucks.

Rayfield has now completed his third and final year of the company’s apprenticeship programme.

DAF Trucks’ managing director Laurence Drake said: “The opportunities on offer are as exciting as they are varied.

“The team behind the DAF apprenticeship programme not only provide a first-class training curriculum, perhaps more importantly, they inspire and empower these impressive young people.”

Now in its 24th year, the DAF apprenticeship programme continues to produce both workshop Technicians and qualified service and parts personnel, setting them up for careers within the DAF organisation.

To date, over 2,000 young people have graduated from the programme, while 40% of all DAF dealer technicians are a product of the programme.

Joe Tooker of MOTUS Commercials in Bristol, was also presented with a special high achievement award after gaining his IMI (Institute of the Motor Industry) certificate of management.

Third Year Awards

Apprentice of the Year – Daniel Rayfield, Harris DAF

2nd – Matthew Hands, Brian Currie (Milton Keynes)

3rd – Matthew Shannon, North West Trucks (Huyton)

Second Year Awards

Apprentice of the Year – Thomas Sykes, HTC (Oxford)

2nd – Aaron Wild, Ford & Slater (Spalding)

3rd – Ben Mitchell, Kingdon Wessex DAF (Saltash)

First Year Awards

Apprentice of the Year – Elliot Dinnage, GB DAF (Gatwick)

2nd – Joe Drummond, Harris DAF (Grays)

3rd – Ross Strain, MOTUS Commercials (Cumbernauld)

Award of Merit (for most significant improvement)

Harry Baker, Foulgers CVS (Royston)

Recently, DAF apprentice Mathew Hands, from DAF Dealer Brian Currie in Bedford, emerged victorious at the national WorldSkills UK national final at the NEC, winning a gold medal.