College students shine in prestigious carpentry skills competition

Derby College Group has recently hosted a major carpentry skills competition – with one of its students proving a cut above the rest.

Organised by the Institute of Carpenters, the Merlane Trophy is a flagship event for apprentices across the Midlands, challenging competitors to complete a complex four-hour practical task.

This year’s challenge required participants to demonstrate exceptional craftsmanship by constructing a detailed model of a hipped roof, alongside other advanced joinery techniques.

Nine colleges from across the Midlands took part, showcasing the very best emerging talent in carpentry, joinery and shopfitting.

Derby College Group celebrated outstanding success on home soil, with student Jack Henley of Seamers Specialist Joinery securing first place for the second consecutive year.

In doing so, Jack becomes the first competitor in the competition’s 47-year history to achieve back-to-back wins.

The victory also represented a hat trick of wins for Derby College Group, underlining its strength in delivering high quality technical education.

Alongside Jack, DCG students Haydn Fletcher and Louis Alsop also represented the college with distinction, contributing to an impressive overall performance.

The event brought together students, employers, judges and industry leaders, reinforcing the importance of practical skills in a sector critical to the UK’s future growth.

Robin Clevett, leading carpentry influencer and presenter on Fix Radio, attended the event and said: “It’s inspiring to see young learners performing at such a high level.

“This industry offers incredible career opportunities, and it is vital we continue to invest in skills like these.

“In an increasingly digital world, there is something powerful about creating something real with your hands.

“With the right support and investment, these learners can help drive the future of housebuilding and construction in the UK.”

The arrangements for the competition were organised by Ben Hirst at Derby College Group, with the event itself delivered by the Institute of Carpenters, with backing from a number of sponsors, including Whitehouse Construction.

He said: “It has been a real honour to host the Merlane Trophy at Derby College.

“The standard of work has been exceptional, and I am incredibly proud of all the students who took part.

“Events like this give learners the chance to test themselves, build confidence, and connect with the wider industry.”

Richard Galbraith, president of the Institute of Carpenters, said: “The Merlane Trophy continues to highlight the exceptional talent coming through our colleges.

“The level of skill, focus and professionalism on display was outstanding.

“These students represent the future of our industry, and competitions like this are essential in supporting their development.”