TAFE NSW Armidale students, Gordon Cook and Michael Brooks, both studying Cert III Commercial Cookery, enjoyed considerable success. Mr Cook won the Phil Darby award, while Mr Brooks received the award for excellence in trade skills.

The Phil Darby award is presented in memory of its namesake. Mr Darby was Director of Apprenticeships in NSW until his passing in 1984. The award serves as encouragement to excellent apprentices.

All winners were announced at a special event hosted by Training Services NSW at the West Tamworth Leagues Club on Friday night.

TAFE NSW Director of Education, John Michael, was thrilled with the performance of our students.

"For TAFE NSW to have seven students claim the highest individual honours in their categories was a great result for them and the TAFE NSW team," Mr Michael said to the Armidale Express.

"The awards serve to highlight the student's talent and dedication to their studies but also to TAFE NSW's ability to offer life-changing training for our students."

Winners will now progress to the Training Award finals, with winners advancing to the Australian Finals.