A student from Truro and Penwith College has reached a national final.

Charlie Cooke, an apprentice at the College, has earned a place at the Apprentice of the Year competition, which is held by Gorilla Glue.

“I think taking part in the Gorilla Glue Competition is an amazing opportunity because it allows me to develop my skills under pressure,” Charlie said.

Truro and Penwith apprentices were tasked with building a high-quality wooden coffee table, and Charlie’s was deemed the most outstanding at the college.

“[It] was a great opportunity for all candidates to showcase their skills and knowledge,” said Karl Sanderson, Tutor at Truro and Penwith college. “It also helped to motivate the students which improved their confidence and self-esteem.”

“Charlie is already looking forward to the Gorilla finals and I have no doubt he will give it his all,” he added.

The competition aims to find the UK’s most talented and tough apprentice. 12 colleges from across the UK are involved in this year’s competition, but only one can bring home the trophy.

Charlie will now compete in the finals, where he is tasked with creating an upcycling project for the Truro and Penwith community. He will hope to beat the competition and secure the prize of a £500 tool bundle and a year’s supply of Gorilla Glue products.

Gemma Shepherdson, Assistant Brand Manager of Gorilla Glue Europe said: “The Gorilla Glue Apprentice of the Year competition allows us to work with and to see the talent of the trade professionals of the future.”

“We are excited to find our next apprentice champion and we are looking for someone, with talent and a natural flair for their trade,” she added.