Forterra supports fourth annual London Apprenticeship challenge

Posted on 27 Mar 2024 by The Manufacturer

Building products manufacturer Forterra supported the running of the fourth annual London Apprenticeship Challenge, hosted at Lewisham College.

As one of its construction hubs, Lewisham College benefits from material and educational support.

The Forterra London Apprenticeship Challenge took place over six hours and saw 15 London-based apprentice bricklayers competing in teams of three, including the competition’s first all-female team, to show off their newly learned skills. A selection of challenges designed by Peter Roberts from Throwing in the Trowel test the apprentices’ practical skills, time management and ability to fulfil a brief.

As part of Forterra’s Construction Hub programme the competition uses Forterra’s donated iconic London Bricks. Prior to the competition the bricks were kept in Forterra branded “BrickJackets” to protect the bricks from damage before use. Using high quality bricks ensures learners and apprentices have the best materials to work and learn with creating cleaner lines and provides a more professional finish to the work.

Bob Noseda, Sector Skills Advisor at Lewisham College, said: “We can’t thank Forterra enough for providing the support to run the competition. It’s a real test of skill for our apprentices. Utilising the apprenticeship path to learn on the job is one of the best ways to acquire the skills and experience needed to progress. It’s wonderful that as part of the Construction Hub programme Forterra encourages students in the industry, providing them with resources and opportunities to develop their skills.

“It was a fantastic event and great to see everyone enjoying the challenge.  Lewisham College are proud to be the hosts of the Forterra London Apprentice Challenge again and be able to support the first all-female team from Lee Marley Academy.”

Adam Smith, Commercial Director at Forterra said: “We place great importance on education at Forterra and are delighted to provide opportunities to support upcoming bricklayers through our London Apprenticeship Challenge. It was amazing to see the amount of talent showcased by the apprentices and we can’t wait to see what next year brings.”

Medals, certificates, and a trophy were donated from the Brick Development Association and handed out to the winners by a select group of judges. Joe Short from BrickJackets, Garry Staines, MD at GSQ and Forterra’s own Technical Manager, Howard Pickwell made up the judging panel.

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