A teenager from King's Norton, Birmingham, is making great strides in his construction career with Lovell.

Michael McDonald, a former pupil at King's Norton Boys' School, is starting the final stage of his bricklaying apprenticeship having just completed his NVQ Level 2 qualification.

The 18-year-old is now studying for his NVQ Level 3 bricklaying qualification as he works on a £34 million large-scale regeneration development in Northfield, Birmingham, where Lovell is building 341 homes for affordable rent and shared ownership for Bromford Group.


In addition to his work on site, Michael attends the Lovell Craft Academy at Stephenson College in Coalville, Leicestershire, on a block release basis.

Experienced Lovell bricklayers have helped guide Michael and enabled him to develop his bricklaying skills as he works on site.

"One of the things I like most is the fact that the work is so varied – I'm constantly learning new things," said Michael. "It's great working with a team of bricklayers too as it means there’s always somebody there to ask for advice if I’m unsure of something."

And, once he has completed his NVQ studies, Michael hopes to remain with Lovell and add to his qualifications.

"I want to continue building up my experience and I'd eventually like to become a site manager in the future," he said.

(CD/KMcA)