UHI Inverness lecturer wins painting and decorating industry's College Mentor of the Year prize

UHI Inverness painting and decorating lecturer Maureen Turner has been named as College Lecturer Mentor of the Year by Purdy, a leading professional painting tools manufacturer.

Purdy’s Mentor of the Year competition recognises those in the industry who inspire the next generation of professional painters and decorators. This year’s winners were announced at an awards ceremony held in central London.

Maureen said: “I didn’t get into teaching to win any awards but after 37 years of being in the industry, it’s just an amazing feeling. I am so delighted! Without teachers, mentors, lecturers, the industry cannot progress. We are there to help progress the future generations of our trade, so mentoring is an integral part of the industry.” 

Those learning the trade were asked to nominate a professional who is having a positive impact on their learning.

Maureen’s nominators spoke of her exceptional communication skills, her energy and her deep passion for the craft. They described her as patient, precise and endlessly supportive and someone who adapts her teaching to every learner, offers clear guidance and gives constructive criticism that builds confidence rather than diminishing it. 

Her students also credited her with shaping their careers, instilling high standards and inspiring them to strive for perfection.

Maureen and her colleague Jordan Bryceland at the awards ceremony.

This year, Purdy received a huge number of entries, so the four judges, Neil Ogilvie CEO of the Painting and Decorating Association, Phil Warrick of CITB, Glen Galbraith of Doncaster College and previous Lifetime Achievement Award winner, and Rob Davies of Purdy, had their work cut out choosing the eventual winners.

Clara Dursent, Brand Manager from Purdy, said: “The standard of entries we received this year has been extremely positive. It was a really difficult task to select our winners, but we have chosen some excellent individuals who don’t just add value to their colleges and mentees, they add value to the industry and provide a crucial support system to their students.”

Issued by Purdy