Young Bricklayer Urges Peers to Build Skills for Future Success

The construction industry is calling for nearly one million unemployed young people in the United Kingdom to acquire practical skills and consider careers in building trades. Brooke Knight, an 18-year-old bricklayer, has emerged as a passionate advocate for this movement, sharing her journey from apprentice to skilled tradesperson.

Knight began her training two years ago and has since qualified, witnessing her salary increase significantly. She encourages others to follow her path, stating, “There are so many jobs up for grabs. It gives a skill for life, there are no college fees, and you can earn thousands a week after tax.” Her message is particularly relevant for those who did not achieve the A-level results they desired or chose not to pursue traditional academic routes.

Building a Brighter Future

Knight’s entry into the industry was facilitated by the Builder Better Britain campaign initiated by The Sun on Sunday. This initiative aims to address the shortage of British workers in construction and promote opportunities for young people. After discovering apprenticeship vacancies through the campaign, she secured her first job at the age of 16.

Women and Equalities Minister Bridget Phillipson recently endorsed the campaign, noting that the lack of skilled labor is exacerbating the housing crisis in the UK. She announced the establishment of ten new Construction Technical Excellence Colleges designed to train homegrown talent for the construction sector, which is vital for building homes, schools, and hospitals. These colleges will serve to train a portion of the 12.5 percent of young people aged 16 to 24 who are classified as NEETs (not in education, employment, or training).

Knight expressed her gratitude for the opportunities provided by the campaign, saying, “I can’t thank The Sun on Sunday enough. I think it’s really important for British people to apply for the jobs out there.” She highlighted the pressing need for skilled workers in the industry, particularly bricklayers, as many potential candidates shy away from the demanding nature of the work.

Financial Incentives and Community Support

The financial benefits of entering the construction field are substantial. Knight noted that apprentice wages start at around £80 per day, which can rise to £130 daily upon qualification. With dedication and experience, bricklayers can earn thousands weekly after tax. She emphasized, “Yes, there are tough days, but you learn a bit of everything, whether it’s bricklaying or plumbing or insulation. I enjoy working on site. The lads look out for me. We’re like a big family, really.”

The support from colleagues and the sense of accomplishment from completing projects are key motivators for those in the trade. Knight described the satisfaction of seeing a house built from the ground up and the pride that comes with contributing to someone’s dream home.

Other young people are following in Knight’s footsteps. Jermaine Lucas, a 17-year-old from Hull, has also found success in the construction trade as an apprentice bricklayer after previously struggling in school. He shared, “I didn’t like sitting in a classroom. Doing this, I learn something new every day. It’s 100 percent better than sitting at home watching TV.”

The UK government has committed £100 million in funding for the new technical colleges, aiming to train 40,000 skilled workers, including bricklayers and electricians, by 2029. Phillipson stated, “If you’re an out-of-work young person or someone looking for a new career, get up, get skills and get building.”

The call for more young people to enter the construction sector is echoed by industry leaders. Ian Hodgkinson, a construction boss known for his role on the TV show DIY SOS, expressed frustration at the number of NEETs in the country. He argued for a focus on practical skills training, stating, “The reality is we’re paying for NEETs—unemployment benefits, Universal Credit, housing support, even the knock-on costs of poor health and crime prevention.”

Knight and other women in the industry, like Emma Hulme, a bricklayer and advocate for women’s involvement in construction, are paving the way for future generations. Hulme, who transitioned from a career in physiotherapy to bricklaying, encourages young women to consider the trade, stating, “There is very good money in the building industry. If you want to have a physical job, it’s fantastic.”

As the construction sector seeks to fill gaps in its workforce, the message from young tradespeople like Brooke Knight is clear: acquiring practical skills can lead to fulfilling careers and financial independence. The path to success may be challenging, but it is one that offers significant rewards for those willing to take the leap.