When Level 2 Brickwork apprentice Elliott entered the Super Trowel regional competition, he wasn’t just representing himself, he was representing his employer, Herefordshire College, and the skills he’s developed through his apprenticeship.
His performance was nothing short of exceptional!
Competing against ten other bricklayers from across the region, Elliott laid an impressive 142 bricks in just 30 minutes without receiving a single deduction from the judges. In fact, his achievement earned him recognition on the Super Trowel website for setting a record for the highest number of bricks laid without any deductions.
“I laid 142 bricks in half an hour with zero deductions,” said Elliott. “You get deductions if your wall isn’t upright or if there are faults in your work. To get no deductions at all was something I’m really proud of.”
Preparing for the competition required dedication and commitment. Elliott regularly stayed behind after college to practice, completing additional training sessions alongside his apprenticeship work.
“I’d stay after college and do extra runs. My friend Adam helped by labouring for me while I practiced. I was hitting 142 bricks during training, and on the day I managed exactly the same score.”
That support extended beyond the workshop. Elliott previously helped Adam prepare for a competition, and Adam returned the favour by supporting Elliott’s Super Trowel journey.
Support from College
Elliott credits much of his success to the encouragement he received from his tutor, Paul Stevens, and the Brickwork team.
“Paul has been brilliant. He’s really passionate about competitions like this and helped me a lot with my preparation.”
Paul was equally proud of Elliott’s achievement.
“Elliott’s performance at Super Trowel was outstanding,” said Paul. “He did the college extremely proud. He showed real courage, worked hard to prepare, and delivered an exceptional performance. We’re all very proud of him.”
Building Confidence Through Apprenticeships
Before joining college, Elliott admits he struggled to find his direction and left school without GCSE qualifications. Through his apprenticeship, he has since achieved his maths and English qualifications and discovered a career he genuinely enjoys.
“I didn’t do very well at school, but college has been really good for me. I’ve gained my maths and English qualifications and found something I’m good at.”
The apprenticeship route has also helped him develop confidence in his abilities.
“I enjoy bricklaying, and I’d say I’m good at it. It’s given me confidence because it’s something I can see myself doing for a long time.”
Although Elliott narrowly missed out on reaching the national final, he is already planning his next challenge.
“I’d like to have another go next year. It would be nice to win it and I think I could.”
As he works towards completing his apprenticeship and progressing in the industry, Elliott is focused on continuing to learn, build connections and develop his skills and aspires to become self employed after he qualifies.
Advice for Future Students
For young people considering a career in construction, Elliott’s message is simple:
“Don’t look down on bricklaying as a skilled profession. It’s a brilliant trade, and you learn a huge amount. If you’re thinking about it, just give it a go.”
And for anyone considering entering the Super Trowel competition?
“Just do it. It doesn’t matter if you finish first or tenth. It’s a great experience, you meet people from the industry and you learn a lot from it.”
Learn more about Elliott’s apprenticeship: HERE
