Oldham apprentice Ethan is runner-up in national brickwork award

An Oldham College apprentice has been recognised as one of the country’s top young bricklayers after being named runner-up in a prestigious national competition.

Ethan 19, was one of three finalists in the Bricklaying Apprentice of the Year award, run by the Association of Brickwork Contractors, and the only finalist from the North of England.

He attended the awards ceremony in London, where he and one other competitor were named runners-up alongside the overall winner.

Ethan began his studies at Oldham College in 2021 and is currently completing an apprenticeship at Oldham College with Marlborough Brickwork, which he joined in 2022.

His employer nominated him for the competition after recognising his dedication and technical ability.

Judges praised both his skills and his career progression.

Speaking about his apprenticeship experience, Ethan said: “My tutor advised me to do an apprenticeship because I enjoyed the more practical side of learning.

“It’s helped me gain confidence not just in my brickwork skills but also in speaking to people and working as part of a team.”

Ethan has worked on major construction projects, including a large tower block in Manchester and a newly-constructed college building.

He believes his apprenticeship has given him the best start in the industry, adding: “I get paid while I learn, and I know I have a job at the end of it.

"If I went to university, I wouldn’t be guaranteed that.”

His tutor and assessor, Paul Monaghan, said: "I'm incredibly proud of Ethan for reaching the final three of the competition.

"His success is a testament to his hard work and the high standard of work that he produces, along with his excellent attitude and work ethic."

Marlborough Brickwork, which has supported Ethan throughout his apprenticeship, praised his dedication and potential.

Paul Donnelly, Managing Director, said: “Ethan has demonstrated outstanding commitment and ability and has developed into an essential member of the team on a key project for Marlborough.

“He has a bright future in the industry, and we are thrilled to see his efforts recognised at a national level.”

Hannah Cutler, Director - Construction, added: “This is exactly what apprenticeships are about, giving young people real-world skills, qualifications, and a direct route into employment.

“Ethan’s success highlights the fantastic opportunities available at Oldham College and the incredible talent coming through our apprenticeship programmes.”

Ethan’s future looks bright, with Marlborough Brickwork eager to support him in progressing to a Level 3 apprenticeship.

He hopes to continue advancing in the industry, with ambitions to become a site manager and eventually run his own business.

Oldham College is proud to support apprentices like Ethan in achieving their career goals.

Find out about the apprenticeship programmes available at Oldham College by clicking here

---

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.