Posted on 25 November
Leeds College of Building (LCB) brickwork lecturer Wayne Richardson has been selected as one of the UK’s “outstanding” tutors by The City & Guilds Foundation.
He is one of just 19 tutors and trainers across the country to have received the 2025 City & Guilds Foundation Membership Award.
Launched in 2024, the Membership Awards honour “outstanding individuals who exemplify excellence, innovation and dedication in vocational education.”
Nominations for the 2025 Membership Awards opened in May, with applications undergoing a two-stage judging process.
Wayne was nominated by his manager and LCB Curriculum Manager Damien Mason-Harding who said:
“The nomination process was in-depth. Senior managers, learners, and colleagues all had input, pulling together loads of evidence of Wayne’s achievements over the past year. It wasn’t just ticking boxes – it was a really detailed look at the difference Wayne makes around the college.
“Wayne is a huge asset to the college, he puts everything into supporting his learners, His passion for the trade, his positivity, and the way he lifts the whole department make a massive difference. Wayne isn’t just teaching bricklaying – he’s helping shape the kind of students and future workers we’re proud to send out into the industry.”
Damien described The City & Guilds Foundation as “an organisation that truly understands the value of good training and excellent teaching.”
While acknowledging that he wasn’t “really one for the spotlight”, Wayne said he felt “great” to be recognised with the award.
“At the end of the day, I try to give the learners the best I can, so it means a lot. I’ve also got to give a big thank-you to Damien, he’s always supported me and given me the confidence and freedom to do what’s right for our learners. Having someone who trusts you and backs you makes a massive difference.
“Teaching the next generation of bricklayers and future industry experts is something I’m genuinely proud of. Seeing them develop – from not knowing one end of a trowel to building proper work with real pride – is what keeps me going. It’s a privilege to be part of their journey and help set them up for the careers they’re aiming for.”
Dame Ann Limb, Chair of the City & Guilds Foundation DBE DL FCGI, said of this year’s winners:
“I couldn’t be prouder of this year’s Membership Award recipients. These tutors and trainers are the heart of our skills system; they change lives and inspire others every day. The Membership Awards are our way of recognising and celebrating their incredible expertise and the lasting impact they make on the people, organisations and the communities around them.”
Wayne and his fellow winners’ success will be formally celebrated at a prestigious awards ceremony at Mansion House in London in March 2026.
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