Stonemasonry student Sam Matthews is pictured here receiving the prestigious Sir Banister Fletcher Award at London’s Building Crafts College annual awards ceremony for being the College’s Student of the Year. Presenting the Award is Andrew Wolstenholme, Chief Executive of Crossrail Ltd. Crossrail are working with the College on training for the tunnels needed for the new London rail project.

The Building Crafts College annual awards ceremony was held at Carpenters’ Hall last month (24 November). Stonemasonry students were awarded their City & Guilds Diploma and Level 3 Diploma in Banker Masonry.

Sam, an apprentice at Canterbury Cathedral, also won the Worshipful Company of Masons Prize for Outstanding Effort for his diligence and commitment to the course over the past three years.

Three other students were recognised for outstanding achievements during the year. They are: Rupert Davis, who received the Worshipful Company of Masons Prize for Outstanding Practical Skills for leading the group construction project and working on major commissions for the college; James Bayliss, who gained the Worshipful Company of Masons Prize for Best Diploma Student for his selfless attitude, contribution to the group project and the continued improvement to the quality of his work, all of which has set an excellent example to fellow students; Jake Wood, who was awarded the Avery Knight Trophy for Best Performing 1st Year Stonemasonry Student.