Apprentice of the Year
Apprentice demonstrating high levels of practical skill in their chosen trade.
Apprentice: Matthew Bracken
Trade: Bricklayer
Employer: John Lewis General Building & Landscaping, Staines, Middlesex
*CCATF Trophy
College: East Berkshire College
Described by his tutor at East Berkshire College as ‘nothing short of amazing,’ Matt Bracken is not only a model student, but also a very capable and professional tradesman, as well as an enthusiastic and public-spirited individual.
“Since the first day he came to study at East Berkshire College, he has been a model student, never too busy to help out his peers or his lecturers. He has not missed a single lesson in the past two years. He is a pleasure to teach and is well on his way to being an exceptional bricklayer and general builder,” said Kristian Barker, brickwork lecturer at East Berkshire College.
Before enrolling at East Berkshire College, Matt had suffered a wasted year waiting for training, having inadvertently signed with a bogus training company. However, he remained undaunted and threw himself into the East Berkshire College course, excelling each year.
Matt showed an interest in building from an early age and undertook several summers of work experience with John Lewis General Building & Landscaping based in Staines, Middlesex, before approaching them for an apprenticeship. Since then he has impressed both his employer and their clients with his quality of work, maturity and professionalism.
Matt’s employer, John Lewis, highlighted Matt’s reliability and keenness to learn different aspects of the job, describing him as “by far the best apprentice I have ever had.”
Said John: “Matt gets on well with all the other trades people on site and customers always warm to him. He will give his time willingly and without a fuss to work late or at weekends to get the job done.”
Recent clients Janet and Tom Willcox were very impressed by Matt’s work on a side extension, half-brick conservatory and landscaping at their Staines home. “The work undertaken at our home was of a very high standard and visitors have commented on the workmanship. We were delighted with the end results and have asked him to do more work for us,” said Janet Willcox.
The quality of Matt’s work is outstanding. He has achieved success in both junior and senior Skill Build regional competitions, taking first place this year.
The judges were in no doubt that Matt’s ability, attitude and enthusiasm are examples of exactly the sort of apprentice who will help improve the reputation of the construction industry amongst other young people. They are delighted to be able to reward an apprentice who shows such dedication and determination, coupled with excellent communication skills.
“We are impressed not just by Matt’s trade skills, evidenced by his competition success and excellent grades, but also by his enthusiasm and spirit of community that shines through in the nomination. He will without doubt be a great addition to the construction industry.”
