Thomas Vipond is used to being labelled by his Asperger’s syndrome and dyslexia.
But now, the 18-year-old from Kelvedon has a brand-new label – outstanding.
Student Thomas, of St Mary’s Road, was honoured with the outstanding achievement prize at this month’s Colchester Youth Awards.
He was nominated by Clyve Tanner, his tutor at Colchester Institute, where he has studied fabrication and welding for the last two years.
Now in his final year, Thomas said he has always had a love of practical pursuits, especially as his dyslexia and Asperger’s syndrome made learning and interaction with others difficult.
“I can’t spell or hand write very well at all, and I used to have problems with people,” said Thomas, who also has limited mobility due to knee problems.
“But I was into engineering from a young age.
“I used to like taking things apart and putting them back together, and that’s where I got an interest in welding.”
If you think you had problems in high school, check out this kid:
Thomas Vipod of Colchester, England had to deal with all the normal rigors of high school life while having both Asperger’s syndrome and dyslexia on his plate.
And yet, he’s found one class where he tops all the rest, and you wouldn’t believe what it is…
Colchester: Young welder is just outstanding
9:00am Monday 26th October 2009
By Claire Owen
Thomas Vipond is used to being labelled by his Asperger’s syndrome and dyslexia. But now, the 18-year-old from Kelvedon has a brand-new label – outstanding.
Picture: SEANA HUGHES (WKKXJ-03)
Student Thomas, of St Mary’s Road, was honoured with the outstanding achievement prize at this month’s Colchester Youth Awards.
He was nominated by Clyve Tanner, his tutor at Colchester Institute, where he has studied fabrication and welding for the last two years.
Now in his final year, Thomas said he has always had a love of practical pursuits, especially as his dyslexia and Asperger’s syndrome made learning and interaction with others difficult.
“I can’t spell or hand write very well at all, and I used to have problems with people,” said Thomas, who also has limited mobility due to knee problems.
“But I was into engineering from a young age. I used to like taking things apart and putting them back together, and that’s where I got an interest in welding.”
