From classroom struggles to career success
Ryley McBride, 17, from Whitkirk, Leeds, has been named NHBC Brickwork Apprentice of the Year at the National House Building Council’s (NHBC) annual graduation ceremony, held at its headquarters in Milton Keynes on Friday, 7 March 2025.
Ryley’s achievement is a testament to his determination and commitment to a career in house building. After struggling in school and finding his GCSEs challenging, he discovered hands-on learning was a better fit for him. His decision to pursue a bricklaying apprenticeship at the NHBC Training Hub in Newcastle has paved the way for a successful career with Keepmoat. Ryley is now thriving in an industry that values his skills.
A practical pathway through NHBC
Ryley completed his apprenticeship at NHBC’s Training Hub in Newcastle, where he gained technical skills and achieved a merit grade. For him, the choice to train with NHBC rather than a traditional college was a straightforward one.
“NHBC sets the industry standards. An NHBC Training Hub is the best place to learn,” Ryley explains.
“I got to train with the highest standards in mind and now I know exactly what’s required to build quality homes that meet NHBC regulations.”
The hands-on experience provided by NHBC’s training meant Ryley could apply what he learned immediately, giving him a strong foundation to progress in the house building industry.
Why bricklaying?
For Ryley, the decision to become a bricklayer was about more than just building quality homes. It was about building himself a future.
“I wanted a job where I could earn good money and enjoy what I do,” he says.
“Being on-site is great and the work itself is really rewarding. The average bricklayer earns around £50,000 a year and some earn even more. That’s a great wage for doing something I enjoy.”
Despite not excelling academically, Ryley found an apprenticeship allowed him to develop a strong skill set in a practical environment, as well as be supported to learning the theory required.
“I didn’t do too well at school, but that hasn’t held me back,” he shares.
“I’ve got my qualification now, and that’s what matters. School and grades don’t mean the end of your career, there are other ways to get into a good job.”
Looking to the future
With his apprenticeship completed at the NHBC Training Hub in Newcastle, and his career underway, Ryley already has ambitious plans for the future.
“I enjoy working for Keepmoat. In the future I might want to start my own bricklaying company,” he says.
“I just want to lay bricks for as long as I can, earn as much as I can and maybe eventually set up on my own.”
Ryley’s enthusiasm for the industry is clear and he strongly encourages others to consider an NHBC apprenticeship.
“If you like hands-on work, like working outside and earning good money, then a bricklaying apprenticeship with NHBC is the best way to do it,” Ryley advises.
“You’re learning to build homes to the highest standards and that gives you a big advantage in the industry.”
Recognition and pride
Winning NHBC Brickwork Apprentice of the Year is a huge achievement for Ryley and he is proud of how far he has come.
“I’m buzzing, absolutely buzzing!” he says.
“I love what I do, and I wouldn’t change a thing.”
With a strong foundation in place, Ryley’s future in house building is bright. His journey is a perfect example of how apprenticeships can transform lives, providing people with the skills, confidence and opportunities to succeed in an industry which offers many different opportunities and career paths.
