The Nation's A* Trades Apprentice Award

 

Here at Markel Direct, we are passionate about celebrating the trades apprentices across the UK who consistently show their motivation and dedication to their learning and progression. To recognise the success of growing, young talent, and to celebrate in-line with National Apprenticeship Week #NAW2025 in February, we brought back The Nation's A* Trades Apprentice Award after a successful 2024 launch.

We're delighted to announce the 2025 award winners – Chris Wilson, Gabbi Day and Ben Mills. Watch the video to learn about their achievements.

After careful consideration, three nominees were selected as the winners by a judging panel of Rob Rees, Divisional Director of Markel Direct, James Wilson, Marketing Manager of Festool, and Robin Clevett, carpenter and host of the Carpentry Show on Fix Radio.

The winners of The Nation's A* Apprentice Award 2025 are:

  • Chris Wilson – Carpentry & Joinery Apprentice
  • Gabbi Day – Roofing Apprentice
  • Ben Mills – Plumbing Apprentice

Find out about their admirable achievements on the winners' page.

All three winners received a Festool toolkit and accessories worth £4,000, 24-hour tools cover for a year from Markel Direct worth £294 and a £750 voucher to spend on trades clothing at workwear and tools provider ITS.

After taking part in the judging panel, Rob Rees commented on bringing back the award for a second year:

"The quality of this year's nominations was outstanding and, on behalf of the judges, I'd like to thank everyone who took the time to nominate an apprentice. Choosing the three winners was incredibly difficult, as so many nominations illustrated the invaluable contribution that apprentices make to the trades and construction industry. Winning this award is a great achievement for Gabbi, Chris and Ben, and I'd like to congratulate them all on the fantastic achievements in their careers so far."

£4,000

Festool Toolkit

A toolkit and accessories from award-winning manufacturer, Festool, to help advance your trades' career

£294

Tools Insurance

24-hour tools cover for a year from Markel Direct to protect your winning toolkit

£750

ITS Voucher

To spend on professional trades clothing at workwear & tools provider ITS