Bricklayers Set to Battle in Cornwall as Major UK Competition Arrives

Cornwall will host a major national construction skills event later this month as Cornwall College Camborne prepares to welcome competitors from across the South West.

Cornwall College Camborne has been selected to host the South West England regional round of the UK’s leading bricklaying competition, Super Trowel. It marks the first time the event has been staged in Cornwall.

The Super Trowel Pro Series regional heat will take place on 27th March at the college’s Camborne campus, bringing together some of the region’s fastest and most skilled bricklayers as they compete for a place in the national final.

A milestone for Cornwall College

Hosting the competition highlights Cornwall College Group’s role in construction training across the region. The college said being chosen reflects its industry-standard facilities, realistic site environments, strong health and safety culture and close employer links.

The Camborne campus has the space and infrastructure needed to stage competitive builds, demonstrating the depth of its construction and apprenticeship training.

Richard Billington, Curriculum Area Manager at Cornwall College, said the event represents an important moment for the college.

Richard Billington said:

“Hosting the Super Trowel regional heat for the first time is a real milestone for the college.

It gives our students the chance to test their skills under real competition conditions, build confidence and take pride in their craft. At the same time, it strengthens our links with local employers, showcasing the high standard of training coming through and helping industry connect directly with the next generation of skilled bricklayers.”

Speed, skill and craftsmanship on display

Super Trowel is a UK wide bricklaying and construction skills competition focused on speed, accuracy and craftsmanship.

Competitors race against the clock to lay bricks while following strict time and quality rules. Judges assess both the speed of the build and the standard of the finished work.

Regional heats take place around the country, with the top performers progressing to the national final later in the season. The Camborne event will serve as the official South West qualifying round, covering competitors from Bristol down to Cornwall.

Opportunities for students and apprentices

The competition aims to create opportunities for those entering the construction industry. Students will be able to observe high level craft skills and connect with industry professionals, while apprentices and tradespeople have the chance to gain national recognition.

Jack Dawson, Director of Super Trowel, said the event is continuing to grow.

Jack Dawson said:

“We’re delighted to be hosting the South West regional at Cornwall College Camborne.

The Pro Series continues to grow year on year, showcasing elite bricklayers at the top of their game, while our Junior Competition gives young learners the chance to test their skills, gain confidence and be inspired by the industry around them. Supporting the next generation is a core part of our mission, which is why all bricks used in the regional will be donated to the college afterwards to support students in their ongoing training and development.”

How to take part or attend

Cornwall College is encouraging eligible competitors to secure their place before the closing date, with spaces still available in the Junior Regional Heat.

The event is open to bricklaying apprentices, Level 2 and Level 3 construction students, employers with apprentices and eligible independent bricklayers across the South West.

Industry professionals, prospective students and members of the public are also invited to attend and watch the competition live.

People interested in competing can find out more and apply. Those wishing to attend as spectators can book a place in the audience.