A TEENAGER from Chelmsford put down his building tools and took a trip to the House of Commons last week, to receive a reward for his hard work in transforming his life.
Ryan Andrews, 15, was one of five youngsters, aged between 14 and 16, to be nominated as the UK Youth Builder 2012, after joining Youthbuild – a vocational training scheme aimed at youngsters who under-performed at school.
"It was one of the best days of my life," said Susan Andrews, Ryan's mother.
"He was over the moon that he was worthy of being nominated. He doesn't have a lot of self-confidence and this has changed his life."
The annual awards ceremony at the House of Commons on October 18, celebrated the Young Builder of the Year, after nominations from training providers.
Ryan was unable to cope with mainstream school due to juggling Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression and the pressure of bullies.
However, his teachers at Hylands School encouraged him to join Youthbuild, based in Montrose Road.
After help from the group, Ryan has been integrated back into school for two mornings a week, to study for his basic GCSEs.
"Youthbuild do amazing things for kids who have nothing," added Mrs Andrews.
"Ryan is lucky to have supportive parents, but others don't have that advantage.
"He has come on leaps and bounds."
Youthbuild UK is a registered charity and aims to deliver construction training to young offenders and other vulnerable young people, to help improve their chances in life.
Youthbuild UK manager Carol Milner said: "We try to break down the barriers for engagement and build confidence within our young people.
"Ryan is a real success story.
"After his initial struggle, he is now prepared to accept his problem and overcome it. He works really hard."
Mrs Andrews added: "Without Youthbuild, Ryan wouldn't be where he is today. They are truly wonderful people."
