Level 2 Carpentry student, Alfie, independently represented EKC Broadstairs College at this year’s KFE4Skills Construction heats, held at EKC Folkestone College on 12 February.
Selection for these heats can be highly competitive, and whilst many competitors on the day were in their second year of study or well into their apprenticeships, Alfie was put forward by staff despite only joining the College in September. The decision to select Alfie as Broadstairs’ representative was driven by the high-quality work he has produced during his first term and the consistent initiative he has shown in the workshop.
The competition required students to build a complex roof section featuring an angled gable end – a technical task usually reserved for more senior levels of study and one Alfie had never attempted before.
Reflecting on being chosen for the event, Alfie said: “It’s quite cool to be chosen, especially as they could have picked second-year students or apprentices. I was told I was put forward because my cutting skills are strong.
“Today we had to build a gable roof, which I’ve never done before. Normally, you wouldn’t start something like this until your second year, so it was difficult, but I’m happy with what I achieved today.
“If I were selected for the finals, I’d be proud, but I also recognise that the skill level is very high. I’m happy with what I achieved today and where I am at this stage.”
Daryl Ansell, our Construction Skills Practitioner, was on hand throughout the day to offer Alfie words of encouragement and support. He explained why Alfie was the right choice to represent the College: “He’s stayed calm and focused, so should feel proud of himself. Even though he’s only been studying since September, he’s even been going to a joinery shop in Sittingbourne on his days off to gain more experience, which shows great commitment.
“I hope he takes confidence and self-esteem from today. This experience should help him build the confidence he’ll need if he wants to run his own business in the future.”
The event also provided Alfie with the chance to work with industry-standard equipment provided by sponsors such as JDW Tools and Fixings. Adrian Walker from JDW noted: “I was very impressed with the students’ work. We want students to understand that the quality of their work is influenced by the tools they use, and by introducing them to manufacturers, we help them make better choices as they progress.”
The day concluded with an awards ceremony where College Principal, Clare Brown, joined department heads Ashley Betteridge and Nik Weakley, to recognise the hard work of all participants.
For Alfie, who achieved a silver medal in the Junior Carpentry division, the event served as a vital stepping stone, providing insight into the standards and time management required in the construction industry. Having successfully navigated his first competition, he is now focused on refining his skills further and is aiming for gold next year.
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