Bricklaying Apprentice Works on Pivotal Project to Renew Water Works Gate-System at Poole Park

Billy, who is studying on the Bricklaying Level 1 course, recently worked alongside leading local Civil Engineering contractor Suttle Projects, assisting with renewal works on the Baiter Sluice Channel and Poole Park Sluice Gate – a gate that acts much like a lock in canals to control water levels. 

During the project, Billy said that he worked hard and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Part of his duties were to: "put the edging down so Suttle Projects’ staff could concrete." He also spaced it out to the right gauge level so they could weigh it down. Additionally, he "set up a lot of barriers, so the team could get access to the sluice gate." The work experience with Suttle Projects was Billy’s first hands on experience on site as a Bricklaying student, and he explained it was "a really great experience".

Suttle Projects praised Billy’s commitment and enthusiasm. In a LinkedIn post, Livvy Williams, Head of Compliance at Suttle Projects, said: “There is no substitute for live project experience, reinforcing the learning and giving a realistic insight into life on site. Luckily, Billy really enjoyed it, and we were struck by his excellent attitude and work ethic.”

At college, Billy has learned to level blocks and set up gauges, among other generalised building tasks. He feels he has "done very well"  and has gained at least three Distinctions for his work so far.

Lecturer, Ian Bartlett, said: “Billy is an excellent example of a young BPC bricklaying student who is full of talent and enthusiasm. We are very fortunate that Suttle Projects  were able to offer this high-quality work experience placement. Suttle Projects’ staff gave Billy a very warm welcome and gave him opportunities to gain a great understanding of the construction skills and knowledge and behaviours that are required within the industry. Billy has returned to his studies inspired by his experience and keen to join the industry as his next step into work.”

Apprenticeships like Billy’s are a key part of the ‘earning-while learning’ model, and are proving popular with many students across the area. Apprenticeships offer a practical way to gain industry skills through hands-on experience, preparing students for the world of work in a realistic and reliable way. For more information about our Construction apprenticeships, or any of our other apprenticeships, please see our website at: https://www.thecollege.co.uk/college/study/subject-areas. 

The construction and engineering industries are forecasting a significant shortage of skilled trades to meet demand. As such, long-term, anyone embarking on a trade skills training programme like Billy is certain to be in high demand and have career opportunities on completion.