SMB College Group Student and Barratt Homes Bricklaying Apprentice, Janey Elliott, was recently shortlisted for the Youthbuild UK Young Builder of the Year Awards, attending the prestigious awards ceremony in London at the end of last month!
The Awards Ceremony, sponsored by Youthbuild President, Sir John Hayes MP, took place on Wednesday the 20th of November at the House of Commons, London.
When speaking about her experience, Janey said, “I am proud to be a woman with autism and able to prove I can do what a man does by becoming a bricklayer and ensuring the quality of workmanship is to an equal standard.
“I have enjoyed being a valued member of my new bricklaying team, learning so much from them and being trusted to undertake work with minimal supervision. I can now follow direct instructions which is building my self-esteem and confidence – which in turn is allowing my processing time and understanding to improve.”
Janey was nominated by her Brickwork lecturer Andrew Martin. Andrew said: “These awards are an amazing event to showcase the young men and woman who have faced adversity in their lives and have overcome it. Myself and Allison Boyd (Student, EPA & Residential Services Team Leader at SMB College Group) were privileged to be invited to the House of Commons for the event.
“Janey has shown courage throughout her life, and to be commended by Youthbuild is a major achievement and she should be proud of herself.”
These awards honour more than just skill and craftsmanship; they celebrate young people who have shown remarkable resilience, overcoming personal and societal challenges to make their mark in construction.
Finalists, alongside their families, supporters, and employers, attended the awards ceremony to celebrate their hard work, dedication, and achievements. With a total prize fund of £10,000, each finalist also received a certificate and tool prizes to support their journey.
If you’re interested in studying Bricklaying at SMB College Group, visit the next Stephenson Campus or Brooksby Campus Open Day to tour the campus and find out more about full-time courses and apprenticeships in Construction. Book your place today: www.smbcollegegroup.ac.uk.