Student Wins Steam Apprentice Of The Year For A Second Time

Published on isbi School News dated Friday 15th of December 2023

Year 8 pupil, Oliver Maunder, is awarded Steam Apprentice of the Year for the second time - making him the only person in the club's history to hold the title twice.

Haberdashers' Monmouth Year 8 pupil, Oliver Maunder, has been awarded Steam Apprentice of the Year for the Steam Apprentice Club, part of the National Traction Engine Trust.

The Steam Apprentice Club is an organisation for young people interested in road steam engines. Founded in 1979 by the National Traction Engine Club, it is dedicated to encouraging and supporting young people with an interest in steam, whether they wish to learn more about the technical side and maintenance of steam engines or wish to visit and document steam rallies.

Vice President of the club, David Smith, visited Haberdashers’ Monmouth School to award Oliver with his winning title and presented him with the prestige JT Beeby cup.

David Smith said “His quiet demeanour, his hunger for knowledge and the gentlemanly way in which he displays those attributes when on an around not only his own scale traction engine, but also on full sized engines is quite something to behold…Often to be found at rallies giving youngsters rides and hands on experience on his miniature traction engine, we can consider the future of our hobby safe if it is in the hands of this young man and others like him.”

As well as showing enthusiasm in road steam and setting good examples to fellow members, Oliver teaches younger people about steam engines at national rallies and events. Oliver is also learning how to use a lathe and developing some blacksmithing skills to enable him to make his own engine parts, requiring a great deal of concentration in addition to mathematical and creative, problem-solving skills.

This isn’t the first time Oliver has been awarded Steam Apprentice of the Year either! He won the title back in 2018 for his efforts too, making him both the youngest recipient and the only person in the club’s history to hold the title twice.

Oliver has been incredibly busy outside of school. He has also secured a position in the National Children’s Orchestra for a second time.

We extend our congratulations to Oliver in acknowledgment of his extraordinary achievements. His success stands as a testament to his hard work and dedication, setting a shining example for aspiring individuals in pursuit of their passions.