Advice for school leavers from double-winner Daisy

Trades such as plumbing aren’t just for men, says the winner of two plumbing competitions.

Daisy Turner, winner of HIP Magazine’s Learner of the Year competition and Female Skills Competition, has joined forces with us to encourage more young people to learn a trade.

As 16 to 18-year-olds celebrate the end of their exams, Daisy is sharing her advice for aspiring apprentices.

Daisy says: “Even in 2024, there’s a perception that trades are more suited towards men than women – but I’m proof that’s not the case and that working hard and being an excellent plumber is all that matters.

“I split my time between studying at Barking and Dagenham College and working for Toucan Heating & Plumbing Ltd – it’s the best of both worlds, combining theory with hands-on experience.

“No matter your age or gender, I’d recommend anyone considering a career in the trades to give it a go. There’s a skills shortage in the industry but apprenticeships provide life-long skills, so it’s a win-win.”

Julie Spinks, Director of WaterSafe, says: “There’s nothing a male plumber can do that a female can’t, and our research shows that many women and elderly customers welcome the chance to employ a female plumber in their home.

“However, women are still severely under-represented in the plumbing industry despite it offering a stable, fruitful career path.

“In a trade traditionally dominated by men, promoting diversity and inclusion is always welcome – and competitions like the HIP Female Skills Competition and HIP Learner of the Year do just that.

“At WaterSafe, we support these competitions so young tradespeople like Daisy can create a profession the next generation can be proud of.”

Daisy’s top tips for school leavers:

·       Don’t be too quick to rule out a trade – plumbing uses lots of practical skills alongside traditional subjects like maths and science

·       Work hard – it sounds obvious but the extra time I spent studying and practising has really paid off

·       Remember: if you do your best work, you won’t go far wrong

·       Speak to your local college if you’re considering an apprenticeship – they’ll always be happy to advise you.

To find out more about the HIP Magazine competitions, visit www.hip-magazine.co.uk/events or read our FAQs on how to become a plumber.