Dorchester Living is celebrating a monumental achievement by apprentice carpenter Luke Payne at the 2026 Abingdon & Witney College Student of the Year Awards.

Selected from a pool of more than 12,000 students, Luke won the Apprentice of the Year award and was also crowned Abingdon & Witney College’s ultimate Student of the Year.

Luke, who studies at the college's Bicester Construction Skills Centre while completing his apprenticeship with Dorchester Living, topped a shortlist of 22 outstanding students representing 11 different faculties to claim the evening's ultimate accolade.

He was presented with the prestigious awards during a ceremony at Blenheim Palace, recognising his exceptional achievements throughout his apprenticeship and commitment to developing his skills within the industry.

The awards highlight Luke's outstanding resilience and personal development throughout his Level 3 Carpentry & Joinery apprenticeship, where he has grown into a highly skilled carpenter.

Praising Luke’s achievement, Mark French, Head of Bicester Construction Skills Centre, commented: “Luke’s achievement is thoroughly deserved and reflects the qualities that make a great apprentice and future construction professional.

“Throughout his time at our Bicester Construction Skills Centre, he has demonstrated exceptional resilience, determination and a commitment to developing his skills to the highest standard.

“He has overcome challenges with a positive attitude, earned the respect of his peers and colleagues, and consistently led by example.”

Paul Silver, Dorchester Living’s CEO, said: “The whole team is incredibly proud of Luke’s achievement. The award reflects the positive attitude, hard work and determination he brings to his apprenticeship and to site.

“Through apprenticeships and on-the-job training, we work closely with local education providers to develop the next generation of construction professionals needed to deliver high-quality homes and communities across Oxfordshire. It's fantastic to see his commitment recognised with such a prestigious award.”

Dorchester Living is committed to investing in skills and creating opportunities for people looking to build rewarding careers in construction.

For more information on opportunities with Dorchester Living, please visit: https://www.heyfordpark.com/recruitment