Walsall College’s construction students went head-to-head at a competition in front of an expert panel of judges, which included an employer looking to take on more apprentices from the College.

The competition took place at the College’s Green Lane campus and was organised to test students’ brickwork skills.

The aim of the competition was to test students’ skills and abilities, which they have honed during the year through the guidance of lecturers Alan Davis and Steve Homer.

The Level 2 students took part in a series of activities, including building a pillar, and a wall that is built using the English garden wall bond method.

The competition was marked to industrial standards, and students were judged on the quality of their work, as well as completion rate. The judging panel included Stuart Bevan, Director of Lichfield Design and build, Mike Wellings (level 3 Tutor) and John Langley (Trainer Assessor).

Stuart Bevan has worked with the College over the last few years, and has recently employed two students as apprentices for their high level of skill and is looking to employ more.

Paul Dixon, lecturer for Brickwork, said:

“Competitions are a great tool to help motivate students to perform and excel. Events such as this offer a chance for participants to gain substantial experience, showcase their skills, analyse and evaluate outcomes, as well as uncover personal aptitude.

The competition also encouraged students to adopt innovative techniques and develop their ideas and skills. The day proved to be a great source of self-evaluation for students and helped nurture their experience and skills further”.

Barry Hill, Curriculum Manager for Construction, said:

“As an outstanding training provider, we are committed to ensuring our students are equipped with the skills they need to gain employment in their chosen trades.

The competition was a great opportunity for our students to practice what they had learnt with little supervision, and receive feedback on their performance, which they can use to enhance their skills.”

For more information about enrolling on a course at Walsall College, please call 01922 657000.

If you’re interested in hiring an apprentice or finding new talent, please contact Walsall College on businesstrainingsolutions@walsallcollege.co.uk