The Institute of Carpenters (IOC) is proud to announce that Ryan Fosker, a 20-year-old apprentice from Hadleigh, Suffolk, has been named the top apprentice carpenter in the UK. Ryan, who is completing his apprenticeship with West Suffolk College and working for TMJ Interiors, has demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication, and passion for his craft.
Ryan’s college nominated him for the Third Year Student Award Scheme, a national competition established by the IOC in 2020 to celebrate the very best of student talent in the carpentry and joinery professions. After a rigorous selection process, Ryan emerged as the overall winner.
Prestigious Recognition
Ryan was awarded the Rainleaf Trophy, crafted by renowned woodcarver Andy Peters, known for creating the figurehead for the Cutty Sark ship in Greenwich. Alongside the trophy, Ryan received £550 in vouchers from industry leaders including Axminster Tools, Ironmongery Direct, Medite SMARTPLY, and Reisser UK Ltd. He also received a personal IOC Winner’s Certificate, while West Suffolk College was recognised with a certificate for their outstanding support.
Reflecting on his achievement, Ryan said: “It’s a privilege to be given this accolade. TMJ and West Suffolk College have both treated me like family, and they push you to be more than you think you are.”
Recognising Talent
Geoff Rhodes, President of the IOC, spoke about the significance of the competition: “We started the competition in 2020 to celebrate the very best of the best. This year’s standard was exceptional, with entries from 55 IOC member colleges. Ryan stood out through his attitude, his skill of the craft, and the glowing tributes from those he has worked with.”
Geoff also highlighted the urgent need for skilled professionals in the industry: “There are 15,000 more carpenters and joiners needed in the next five years to address the UK’s woodworking skill gap. Building strong relationships with colleges is vital, as is connecting the timber industry and other trade associations into this work.”
Employer and College Support
Ryan’s employer, Pat Coll, of TMJ Interiors, shared his pride: “From his first day, Ryan had a spark, and as an employer, that’s what you’re looking for. Our company philosophy of nurturing apprentices has been key to our success, and Ryan is on his way to a very successful career.”
Brian Tunbridge, Ryan’s lecturer at West Suffolk College, also praised his achievement: “This is the second time one of our apprentices has been named the top Level 3 apprentice in the country in four years. It’s a testament to our exceptional standards and reinforces our recent Ofsted Outstanding grade.”
A Bright Future
Ryan’s journey highlights the importance of nurturing talent and investing in apprentices to secure the future of the carpentry and joinery professions. The IOC extends its congratulations to Ryan, TMJ Interiors, and West Suffolk College for their dedication to woodworking.