Double success for talented bricklaying brothers

FRIENDLY rivalry was the order of the day when brothers Lewis and Jordan Ireland, studying Bricklaying at Warrington Collegiate, took second and third places in the Bricklaying Skillbuild competition (North West region).
Lewis, 19, came to Warrington Collegiate straight from school, showing promise from the start as a talented bricklayer. From a full-time student he was taken on by Harry Fairclough as an Advanced Apprentice, so he could continue studying at Warrington Collegiate. Lewis took the third place in a tough senior category; where competition was fierce with some competitors have many years’ experience in the industry.
Lewis says, “I’m absolutely thrilled. It was an incredible experience to participate in such a prestigious industry competition. The standard of the other contestants was very high but it was great to win when up against such talented bricklayers.”
He added,” I appreciate all the time my tutors have dedicated to help me prepare for the competition. Our family has also been extremely supportive and is extremely proud of such an amazing achievement. It was a privilege to be awarded second place.”
Younger brother, Jordan, 17, followed in his brother’s footsteps, joining the college at 14 on the schools programme before becoming a full time student in September 2014. Jordan competed in the New Entrant category, narrowly beating his brother by gaining second place.
Both brothers now face an anxious wait to see if they have scored highly enough to be invited to the finals later in the year at the Skills Show at the NEC in Birmingham.
John Dando, Lecturer in Brickwork art Warrington Collegiate, who has been preparing the brothers for the competition, was delighted with a double win, saying, “Our continuing success in skills competitions is an indication not only of the skills shown by our students but also the commitment and dedication of the tutors that teach them. Jordan and Lewis are already regional winners and now have the opportunity to showcase their talents and skills at this prestigious event as they bid to be crowned national champions.”
Peter Jones, Curriculum Manager for construction said, “Skillbuild is an amazing showcase for the wide variety of skills and talent we have in this country. We need to champion our skills and inspire young people to make their own mark on industries ranging from construction to engineering and Forensics. Creating a highly skilled nation will lead to economic growth and improve the prospects and reputation of Britain as a world leader.”
Jordan and Lewis  have a hard act to follow – the college can boast a world champion – Ashley Terron from Grappenhall, who took gold at WorldSkills  International ( dubbed the Skills Olympics) s 2 years ago in Leipzig 2013. Since then his career has sky rocketed!