.jpg)
Ten Carpentry and Joinery lecturers from SERC, along with representatives from North West Regional College and South West College, gathered for a SkillBuild Carpentry Masterclass hosted at SERC Lisburn Campus recently.
The session was delivered by Pat Phillips, an International and National Construction Skills Competition Judge, who regularly officiates at SERC’s SkillBuild Intercampus Competitions, the Northern Ireland SkillBuild Regional Competition and the UK SkillBuild Finals.
The masterclass was organised through the NI FE Colleges Construction Hub as part of ongoing staff CPD, with the aim of enhancing the skills and knowledge required to effectively prepare students for competitions. Pat started the day with an overview of the history of SkillBuild and highlighted the progression of past Northern Ireland competitors who have advanced to the WorldSkills Finals. He also reflected on the achievements of previous SERC competitors.
Staff then participated in a practical workshop session, where they applied the techniques and insights shared by Pat. The session generated a great sense of engagement, with some healthy competition and camaraderie among staff.
Francis Rice, SERC Principal Lecturer for Construction Trades, commented,
“The masterclass was a highly beneficial experience that will help strengthen and refine staff skills. This in turn improves the support we can provide to students competing at college, regional and national levels as they represent both the college and their employers. Thanks go to Pat Phillips for delivering such an insightful and valuable session, to SERC technician David Burleigh for preparing the workshop facilities and to Kieran McKenna, who is the SERC Construction Hub Lead, for supporting me in organising and hosting the event.”
