A Yuill Homes apprentice has continued his success as a talented bricklayer after winning gold in the northern section of the renowned Guild of Bricklayers Competition for the third successive year.
John Rudge, 21, from Hartlepool, was crowned the regional winner after impressing the judging panel by demonstrating his brick-work ability, following the construction of a specialist wall as part of the competition.
Having just completed his Level Three Diploma in Bricklaying and Trowel Occupations at Hartlepool College of Further Education as well as an NVQ in construction, John is looking forward to starting a full-time career in the building industry.
Currently working as an apprentice on Yuill Homes’ Cecil Court development in Hartlepool, John said: “I’m really happy to have won the regional competition. It was a great achievement for me to have won it once so to have been successful in the competition for three years running really means a lot to me.
“Working alongside talented tradesman on-site with Yuill Homes over the past few years has helped me to improve as an apprentice bricklayer and it’s been great to put what I have learned at college into practice.
“I’m looking forward to starting a full-time career in the building industry and hope to continue to develop my skills and experience further.”
Working in partnership with Hartlepool College of Further Education, the Yuill Homes apprenticeship scheme offers local trainees, who are working towards an NVQ in construction, the chance to gain on-the-job experience which is essential for developing their skills, giving them a greater chance of gaining construction employment in the future.
Rob Burrell, head of production at Yuill Homes, said: “The reason why we are an award winning house builder is not only because we pride ourselves on providing the highest quality in our finished product, but we also make sure we employ the most talented tradesman to do the job.
“We are extremely proud of our relationship with Hartlepool College of Further Education who continue to produce high quality skilled apprentices ready for the work place. We would like to congratulate John for his dedication as an apprentice throughout his time with us.”
Graham McPhail, director of apprenticeships at Hartlepool College of Further Education, said: “Everyone at the college is delighted that John has been recognised for his talented brickwork. He has shown what it takes to succeed through his determination and willingness to learn after previously being unemployed.
“I would like to thank Yuill Homes for its continued support of trainees and partnership with the college.”
