DOUBLE AWARD WIN FOR FORMER LEEDS COLLEGE OF BUILDING STUDENTS

Two former Leeds College of Building students have won a coveted award from the Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) in recognition of their outstanding achievements.

Richard Leese and Calvin Sargeant won the Yorkshire Region Student Award due to their excellent results, attendance and attitude towards their studies and the industry.

Richard first attended Leeds College of Building for four years in the early 90’s as a pipe fitter welder apprentice achieving a Level 3 NVQ. He then returned in 2002 to teach Heating and Ventilation, and he also taught design engineers whilst achieving a HND in Building Services Engineering. Last year he became a curriculum manager at the College for Building Services and Civil Engineering courses whilst also completing a BSE Bsc Hons Degree at Leeds Beckett University, which nominated him for the award, achieving a first class degree.

Calvin started at Leeds College of Building in 2009 on a Level 1 Diploma in site carpentry, which he completed with a Distinction. He progressed onto the Level 2 and Level 3 Diplomas which he completed with Distinction and Merit grades. After gaining employment with a building services design consultancy, his new employer offered to send him back to college for further training. In 2012 he enrolled on the Level 3 Subsidiary Diploma in Building Services Engineering and achieved a Distinction. He then enrolled on the Higher Level Apprenticeship in Construction Management (Sustainability), which took three years to complete.

Calvin says: “Throughout my studies the dedication and knowledge of the staff at Leeds College of Building has helped me achieve my goals, and I have now enrolled at Leeds Beckett University on the BSc Top-up Degree in Building Services Engineering. This is far beyond my expectations, as I started at the college unemployed with limited formal qualifications. My primary goal was to learn a trade to provide for my children, and Leeds College of Building has provided me with the knowledge, qualifications and skills needed to secure my position as a Mechanical Engineer at global design consultancy – Ramboll. I am so grateful to all of the staff at Leeds College of Building for a thoroughly enjoyable learning experience and this award win is the icing on the cake!”

Richard says: “The CIBSE accolade rewards students for outstanding enthusiasm and hard work, singling out people who have achieved above and beyond what is expected of them, and I am delighted to share the Yorkshire award with Calvin. Both of us started out on our educational path many years ago, and have kept progressing and achieving further qualifications whilst working. It’s very rewarding to have been recognised in this way by CIBSE.”

Richard and Calvin were presented with their award in front of 300 people at an awards ceremony at The Royal Armouries in Leeds. CIBSE Yorkshire Chairman, Simon Owen said “We wanted to create an event to celebrate all aspects of building services in the region. With categories covering Individual CPD, Manufacturers, Projects of the Year, students, FM and Consultancy of the Year, the Awards gave individuals and organisations in all sectors the chance to shine. In total, 36 trophies were awarded on the night.”