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Monday 30 April 2012

Building Success

Learners from Forth Valley College’s Department of Construction showed off their talents at a recent SkillBuild competition.

SkillBuild, a competition managed by ConstructionSkills, the Sector Skills Council and Industry Training Board for the construction industry, is the largest multi-trade competition in the country for construction apprentices.

The five students battled it out with contestants from across Scotland, in the Scottish heat of the competition which was hosted by Angus College.

The competition covered a wide range of construction trades including bricklaying, plastering, carpentry, joinery, cabinet making, wall and floor tiling, painting and decorating.

David Gardner (19, Whitburn), a 2nd year apprentice with West Lothian Council currently undertaking an MA in Painting and Decorating won a silver medal in the Senior Painting and Decorating category - narrowly missing out on the UK final in September. David said:

“I won a silver medal in the junior category last year but wasn’t sure what to expect this year as I was entering the senior category.  I was expecting it to be a lot harder but once I got started I felt I done really well.  The standards were really high though, it was too close for me to call when I looked around at the work of the other entrants, however it was brilliant to hear my name being called out.   It’s a good feeling to have your hard work recognised and it gave me a boost.  It really motivates you and you come back to college determined to keep up the good work.”

Despite not winning one of the top prizes, the other learners took away new skills, improved confidence and a desire to build on their success in future competitions.  

Andrew Plank (19, Glen Ochil Village), a 1st year Modern Apprentice in Painting and Decorating participated in the Painting and Decorating Junior category.  He said:

“This was the first time I had been involved in a competition like this and although I was nervous it was a really good experience.  I enjoyed the tasks and finished on time so the competition built my confidence.  I’d definitely do it again. “

Blair Hart (19, Mid Calder), a 2nd year Modern Apprentice in Bricklaying entered the New Entrant Category for Bricklaying.  Blair said:

“I felt confident going into the competition and got on well – just others done better!  I think next time I would need to go faster.    This is the second time, I’ve taken part in a competition, I really enjoy them so it’s something I’m keen to do more of.  They really help you put your skills into practice.”

Michael Wombwell (23, Kirkcaldy), an MA in Joinery and Carpentry took part in the Joinery category.  He said:

“I had a great time at the competition and it made me feel more confident in my abilities.  It’s good experience as you’re pushing yourself more than normal.  My top tips for anyone taking part would be to keep your cool and don’t feel too pressured.”

Finally, Driss Keriouh (19, Broxburn), a 2nd year MA in Painting and Decorating competed in the Senior Painting and Decorating category.  He said:

“This is my second time entering a competition like this and it’s been a great experience.  Everyone really pushes themselves and taking part really sharpens your skills as you need to focus on the job in hand within the time allocated.  I’ll hopefully get the opportunity to take part again.”

Tags: Construction, Current students

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