Industry collaboration inspires next generation of bricklayers
Morgan Sindall Construction and Willmott Dixon, alongside their supply chain partners, have come together under the SCAPE Construction framework to deliver a collaborative initiative designed to support and inspire the next generation of bricklayers studying at Leeds College of Building.
Borne from SCAPE’s Community Legacy Programme – which encourages delivery partners to work collaboratively to generate meaningful social value beyond project delivery – the initiative brought together both contractors and specialist partners Marlborough Construction Services and Henley Stone Specialists. Together, they delivered a week-long programme combining live site visits with practical, skills-based learning across two SCAPE-procured projects, giving students direct exposure to real construction environments and clearer insight into career pathways within the industry.
Over the week, students were introduced to a brickwork experience programme designed to provide hands-on insight into the trade. Following an earlier visit to Willmott Dixon’s Hough Top project, students also attended Morgan Sindall Construction’s Middlecross Assisted Living care home scheme where they experienced first-hand high-quality brickwork on a live site. Supply chain partner Henley Stone engaged directly with students in a tour of their works to broaden understanding of the roles and opportunities available within the sector.
Students were also set a practical challenge, working to a live brief to design and construct brickwork panels within a set timeframe. Throughout the process, they were supported by experienced professionals from Marlborough Construction, gaining valuable insight into trade techniques and quality control processes, including health & safety awareness and the importance of keeping a tidy work area.
The week culminated in students completing their projects and showcasing their work for assessment by subcontractor supervisors from Marlborough and Henley. A high standard of work was achieved, with students receiving positive feedback alongside additional support and career guidance.
The initiative highlights the role collaboration across contractors, supply chain partners and educators can play in tackling skills shortages in construction, creating a more joined-up and practical route into the industry for young people.
Ryan Johnson was named the overall winner of the final challenge, receiving a specialist trowel. Runners-up Ryan Milner, Ish Saine and Alfie Dougan were each awarded tool bags, while all participating students received a new spirit level in recognition of their involvement.
Reflecting on their experience, Ryan said:
Yeah, I really enjoyed it, had a lot of fun building it to the spec, and I feel happy with how it turned out with the finished product. I was really excited to come into college each day to work on it.”
Ish added:
I learned how to do new things and pick up new skills. I’m happy with how it turned out. At first, I was struggling, but I picked up a good rhythm, and I’m pleased with myself with how it’s turned out.”
Declan Mahoney, Employability Officer for Construction Crafts at Leeds College of Building, said:
It was a brilliant occasion for our leaners to gain valuable experience from engaging with the best industry professionals their trade has to offer as well as a chance for them to participate in a competition that gave them the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge and skills they have learned from their tutors this year.”
Chris Walker, Project Manager at Morgan Sindall Construction, leading the delivery of Middlecross Care Homes, said:
We know how important it is for students to see how what they’re learning in the classroom translates into a live construction environment. Giving them the opportunity to step onto site, speak to our teams and experience the pace and quality of work first-hand helps bring those skills to life and provides a much clearer picture of what a career in construction can look like.”
Chris Yates, Yorkshire Director at Willmott Dixon, said:
Ensuring that future generations of construction professionals have access to opportunities and experience like this is crucial for our industry's success going forward. This collaborative initiative has provided students with an early exposure to hands-on training that will help build their confidence and showcasedhe vast number of rewarding careers out there within the industry."
Alison Ramsey, Senior Social Impact Manager at SCAPE said:
Our Community Legacy Programme brings SCAPE and our partners together with a shared goal to maximise social impact within local communities. Creating employment, skills and training opportunities is a vital part of that commitment, helping people build knowledge, confidence and practical experience while inspiring the next generation. I’m delighted to see Ryan, Ish and the other students gain so much from the experience.”
