Having triumphed in the South West regional heat of SkillBuild, the UK’s largest multi-trade competition, three of Weymouth College’s Stonemasonry apprentices, Thomas Whitehead (22), Darek Malecki (32) and Edward Shaw (30), from Weymouth, Cheddar and Chichester attended the national competition at Preston College between the 12th and 14th September; scooping gold, silver and bronze awards.
The winners were announced at a closing dinner reception at Preston Guild Hall on 14 September. Thomas, who works at Albion Stone on Portland, was awarded gold; Edward of Cathedral Works Organisation took silver and Darek of Wells Cathedral Stonemasons took the bronze award. The boys competed in the Stonemasonry category against the best trainees in the country; excelling themselves and working their way up to the top of the national chart as 1st, 2nd and 3rd in the UK.
The three day competition was staged by CITB-ConstructionSkills, the Sector Skills Council and Industry Training Board for the construction industry and saw over 100 talented individuals battling to be crowned the best in their field in a range of skills including Bricklaying, Joinery, Carpentry Painting and Decorating.
Stonemasonry lecturer, Darren Lawrence said on behalf of the College: “The Stonemasonry department are extremely proud of Thomas, Darek and Edward. They are a fantastic example of how great teaching and employer support can inspire and influence a young person completing an Apprenticeship.”
Thomas started his Apprenticeship in 2010 with Albion Stone and has completed a hat-trick of achievements in regional and national competitions; with his first win after just one month of study at Weymouth College.
If you would like to know more about stonemasonry courses available with Weymouth College; please visit www.weymouth.ac.uk or call free on 0800 808 9440 for details.
