Former North Hertfordshire College Construction & Trades student, James, recently returned to the Engineering & Construction campus to speak to current learners about how they can maximise their time at NHC – just like he did.
Two years ago, James enrolled on NHC’s Level 1 Bricklaying programme. Since then, James has successfully completed both our Level 1 and Level 2 Bricklaying courses and now works full-time in the construction industry.
During his time on our Level 2 Bricklaying course, James participated in a site visit to ALB Brickwork, working on tower blocks near the Engineering and Construction campus. He laid several courses of bricks alongside his peers on the sixth floor of the second block, gaining real-life work experience in the process.
While on site, James made a positive impression on both the Site Manager and the Foreman from ALB Brickwork, who later visited our workshop to observe our training methods.
NHC’s tutors encouraged James to obtain his CSCS card, which he did super quickly on our CSCS Health, Safety and Environment course. Since then, James has started a 24-month apprenticeship programme with ALB Brickwork. He’s already going above and beyond in his new role and is expected to complete his apprenticeship in just 18 months, fast-tracked by the high standard of skills and experience he already has.
We were super excited to welcome James back to our Engineering and Construction campus last month to share his insights with our current students.
He discussed his daily routine and key parts of his role on-site with our Bricklaying, Carpentry, and Multi-Skills learners, including tips on carrying materials and staying ahead of the bricklaying gang to maintain workflow. James also explained the importance of full PPE, on-site expectations for labourers, and discussed some of the disciplinary procedures like the yellow/red card system in place on ALB’s site.
James was also pleased to share the physical transformation he’s seen as a consequence of his hard work on site. Since starting his new role, James has lost five stone purely through the demands of his job, proving that ‘bricklaying can be as effective as a gym membership!’.
We’re super proud of how James is getting on with his apprenticeship programme, and we wish him the very best of luck for the rest of his career!
Could you follow in James’ footsteps? Be the best you. Ever. Start your Construction and Trades career at NHC.