SNIPEF

UHI Perth has bid farewell to Gordon Nisbet after more than a decade educating the next generation of plumbing and heating professionals in Perth and Kinross.

Gordon got his start in the industry by completing his five-year modern apprenticeship with Lauder-based R Watson & Son in 1971.

He would move onto teaching in 1983, taking up a position at Galashiels College (now Borders College). The following year, he moved to work at Jewel and Esk Valley College in Dalkeith (now part of Edinburgh College) where he was a promoted member of staff, helping to enhance the reputation of the college’s plumbing courses both locally and nationally. The college was selected by the Worshipful Company of Plumbers in 2001 for special awards in the Excellence in Copper Pipework Teaching and Excellence in Sheet Lead Teaching. Gordon would continue teaching at Jewel and Esk until 2010 when he moved to Perth.

His time at Jewel and Esk Valley College and UHI Perth has been marked by several student successes in national plumbing competitions, while in Perth he played a key role in launching the new gas lab at the campus in January 2012.

But his influence has expanded beyond the classroom, setting up work experience programmes with local employers in Perth and attracting sponsorship from various manufacturers using the contacts he had built up at Jewel and Esk Valley. These sponsorships have helped improve the campus facilities each year and secured new materials that have aided the overall student experience.

Reflecting on his time in Perth as a “blast”, he said: “In over 40 years in education, the last 14 years of working life at Perth have been the best in my career.

“I would like to hope and think that I have contributed to the Perth and Kinross plumbing, heating and renewables community over the years.”

Gordon told us that his time at UHI Perth were “his happiest years in teaching”, adding that he has been fortunate to work with many wonderful people over the years. 

He described his teaching style as a “lecturer and facilitator”, using student devised workbooks that put the learner at the centre of their own learning.

Gordon explained: “Success isn’t always measured by students coming first, but by challenging them, and helping students become the best version of themselves.”

His impact on the industry has been felt by his former colleagues, who were eager to wish him a well-earned retirement.

Catherine Etri, former vice principal at UHI Perth, was thankful to Gordon for his role in inspiring students to forge a successful career in the industry.

She said: “Thank you for your dedication and commitment to all your students over the years.

“You have transformed many lives and many of your students are now successful business owners who now employ their own students. What an achievement! Very best wishes for the next chapter!”

This sentiment was shared by John Rafferty, programme leader at Borders College.

He added: “I hope you have a long, happy and well-deserved retirement Gordon, your input to our industry over your long career has helped to shape our qualifications for the future.”

Gordon has also been an active member of SNIPEF, with an unwavering dedication to helping the profession’s apprentices. He has worked closely with The Scottish Plumbing Apprentice of the Year Competition (SPAY) over the years and held the position as an SQA External Verifier from 2008 to 2021, aiding in the development of the skilled professionals of the future. Gordon also had a significant involvement in the former Perth and District Master Plumbers’ Association, attending meetings regularly for the benefit of the industry in the local area.

Dale Thomson, apprentice training manager at SNIPEF, said: "On behalf of myself and everyone at SNIPEF Training Services, thank you for the tremendous support you’ve shown us over the years.

"Your hard work has made a lasting impact, not only on the apprentices you’ve mentored, but also on the wider plumbing and heating industry.

"Many plumbers out there owe a great deal to you for helping them start their journeys and careers as fully qualified plumbing and heating operatives.

"Your knowledge and experience will be greatly missed in the sector."

Vanessa Docherty, regional training officer for SNIPEF Training Services, added her thanks for his contributions to the sector.

She said: “It has been a pleasure to work with Gordon over the years. He has contributed significantly to our industry and positively impacted the lives of so many learners.

“Perth UHI will not be the same without you! Wishing you all happy things in your well-deserved retirement.”

Everyone at SNIPEF wishes Gordon a well-earned and happy retirement.