There is nothing quite like a competition to spur students on to test themselves and their abilities against their peers.
The team at SERC were delighted when Year 1 Brickwork Apprentice, Fergal Gilmore (22, Portaferry), supported by his Hod Carrier, Peter Russell (18, Millisle), a second year Level 2 Traineeship in Bricklaying student, delivered an outstanding performance at the 2026 Super Trowel Series regional heat hosted recently at Southern Regional College, in Newry.
Terry Holland, Curriculum Manager said, “This was the first time we had any apprentices representing SERC involved in this competition, so we were very proud of Fergal, ably supported by Peter, finishing in a very respectable fourth place. The duo worked well with Fergal laying bricks and Peter ensuring materials ran smoothly to him all day.”
He added, “Fergal laid an impressive 107 bricks and scored 87 points, a remarkable achievement for a Year 1 student. Having experienced the excitement of a regional competition, Fergal hopes to build (literally) on this success and has set his sights firmly on a podium finish next year.”
Terry continued, “Not only did Tutor Stephen Fairley do a superb job preparing the students for the competition, but he quickly prepared himself to take part, stepping in at the last minute to assist one of the pro competitors when their Hod Carrier failed to turn up – a case of the show must go on! And in true camaraderie, Stephen kindly drove the Birmingham competitors to the airport after the event."
Terry concluded, “All the Brickwork Apprentices and Trainees, and Construction Maintenance students from Downpatrick attended the event to cheer on Fergal and Peter in what was an enjoyable day off campus. The competition concluded with complimentary burgers and chips - and everyone smiling as we headed home.”
