London apprentices show off their skills at bricklaying contest

After a successful launch in 2021, the second Forterra London Apprentice Challenge recently took place at Lewisham College.

The contest saw 18 London-based apprentice bricklayers compete to show off their newly learned skills through a selection of challenges.

Jack Simmons from Swift Brickwork achieved first place in the individual competition, Shaun Wigzell from Flahive Brickwork took second place, while Joseph Vaughan from Lee Marley and Bradley Battams from Winchmore Brickwork secured third place.

Bob Noseda, Sector Skills Advisor at Lewisham College, said: “It was fantastic to be able to host the Forterra London Apprentice Challenge again, and have the opportunity to meet some of the talented bricklayers joining the industry. It’s wonderful that Forterra encourages students in the industry, providing them with resources and support, especially Helen Newberry who is an amazing supporter of education and has created some very unique competitions.

“Massive congratulations to Jack, Daniel, and Bradley who really stood out in the contest, and congratulations to all attendees; with the amount of talent and dedication shown last week, I’m sure every one has a great future in the industry.”

Stephen Harrison, Chief Executive of Forterra, said: “The future of the construction industry is immensely important and we are delighted to have the opportunity to encourage upcoming bricklayers through our London Apprentice Challenge. It’s fantastic to see the skills emerging from the apprenticeship scheme, and we look forward to seeing these students progress in their careers.”

From arranging the annual Best in London Brick contest at Lewisham College which uses Forterra’s iconic London Brick, to recently establishing “Construction Hubs” in partnership with colleges across the UK, Forterra continues to support upcoming bricklaying talent in a variety of ways.

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