Leeds College of Building Apprentice Crowned National Senior Champion at Guild of Bricklayers Final

Leeds, UK, 25.06.2025 – Leeds College of Building proudly announces that one of its apprentices, Ellis Smith, has been named Senior Champion at the Guild of Bricklayers National Final 2025. Representing Hirst Developments, Ellis achieved this prestigious accolade following a standout performance in a nationwide competition at Sunderland College.

Ellis qualified for the national stage after securing first place at the Yorkshire Region Brickwork Competition in April. At the national finals, he demonstrated exceptional skill and composure under pressure in a rigorous, timed practical challenge that saw bricklaying talent from across the country compete side-by-side.

A Test of Skill, Focus, and Endurance

Over two intense three-hour sessions, Ellis constructed a complex brickwork model, strategically completing over half before the mid-way break to maintain a strong lead. His advice to aspiring competitors? “Keep your cool… if you keep a cool head, you’ll be all right.”

The Guild of Bricklayers National Final recognises superior craftsmanship and provides invaluable industry exposure for newcomers and seasoned trainees. Ellis’s victory is a shining example of how hard work and professional mentorship can shape a standout career.

Celebrating Excellence in Craftsmanship

Damien Mason-Harding, Curriculum Manager at Leeds College of Building, praised Ellis’s achievement:

“A massive congratulations to our very own Ellis Smith, who absolutely smashed it at the Guild of Bricklayers final and brought home the trophy. Huge respect to all the talented competitors – the standard was sky-high.

This win is also a massive testament to the incredible guidance of Ellis’s tutor, Wayne Richardson, and the entire brickwork team at LCB. This is a huge win for Ellis and for the future of bricklaying.”

Ellis credited both Damien and Wayne for their unwavering support:

“Wayne has been breaking his back to help me; the constructive criticism he’s given me has been outstanding. Damien drove me all the way to Sunderland for the final. So, genuinely I can’t thank Leeds College of Building enough.”

Industry Recognition

Chris Hirst, Business Owner of Hirst Developments, also shared his pride:

“Very proud of Ellis. Thank you to Leeds College of Building for providing Ellis with the training he is now putting into practice. We have two new apprentices starting in September [who will] hopefully show the same levels of achievement.”

Founded in 1932, the Guild of Bricklayers remains dedicated to upholding the highest standards in the craft. Its regional and national competitions are now among the most coveted accolades in the UK’s construction and education sectors.

Learn More

For more information about Bricklayer Apprenticeships and other construction and built environment training opportunities at Leeds College of Building, visit:
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Media Contact:
Kathy Sharpe
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