DCG Success Stories

Derby College Group level 3 bricklayer Jack Hadfield loves to take part in brickwork competitions.

And his impressive skills have earned him the regional top spot in two UK-wide events this year – plus the potential to represent his college in industry national finals.

Jack, who is 20, recently won the Guild of Bricklayers competition held at the Grimsby Institute. He also came first in the regional heat of the Construction Industry Training Board’s SkillBuild at Barnsley College in May.

Jack, who is on DCG’s Level 3 City & Guilds Diploma in Bricklaying, said:  “One of the best things about my course is practising for competitions. They’re nice and challenging – something I can get my teeth into.

“About eight of us took part in the Guild of Bricklayers competition. Working from a drawing, we had six hours to complete a brickwork feature. I like doing the more complex decorative stuff like that. It really tests my skills.”

Jack’s interest in construction first began when he was in sixth form studying for A-levels in engineering, maths, pure maths and product design.

He added: “When we were let out of school early, and at weekends, I used to go and help a neighbour with his building jobs.

“He’s 80 but used to be a builder and knows such a lot. I wanted to learn more so I could speak his language.

“I did ok in my A-levels and got the UCAS points needed to go to University but decided against it as it’s so expensive.

“I went to college instead and did a few taster courses at DCG in Ilkeston before settling on the Level 2 Technical in Bricklaying. After that I moved on to the Level 3. It’s a good course and I really like my tutors.”

After leaving college Jack plans to go self-employed, taking on projects such as building garden walls. He already does some work for friends and family.

Longer term he’d consider starting his own business or work as a subcontractor in the building and property sector.