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Seal of Excellence Award for Construction and Built Environment alumnus

A Construction and Built Environment alumnus of Eastleigh College has been recognised by industry professionals across the South West region with a coveted NHBC Pride in the Job Seal of Excellence Award.

James Berry has worked as a site manager for the past six years at Vistry Group, overseeing and implementing the development of sustainable new homes and communities across the housing market. This has involved spearheading new-build projects across Hampshire and supervising personnel involved in the construction process – usually consisting of three site labourers, three assistant site managers, two fork lift operators and the various site inspectors for different contractors.

James already had strong ambitions to become a site manager upon completing his BTEC in Built Environment at Eastleigh College in 2012. It was this that influenced his decision to enrol upon a further HNC (Level 4) in Building Construction Technology at the College.

“It gave me a real rounded education of the industry, not just the immediate responsibilities of a site manager, but an insight into surveying, superstructure and technological procedures,” said James. “At the time I was working as an assistant site manager and I loved the day release system, which allowed me to instantly put my learning into practice and broaden my horizons through interacting with fellow classmates involved in other areas of construction.”

The Seal of Excellence Award had been on James’s radar for a number of years given its prestige and exclusivity. Over 10,000 site managers are surveyed annually across the country, with an approximate 100 awards ensuing from these inspections – a rate of only 1%. Each site manager is assessed on their ability to achieve the highest standards in UK housebuilding according to six key criteria – consistency, leadership, interpretation of specifications and drawings, technical expertise, attention to detail and health and safety. A victory isn’t just a career springboard for the individual concerned, but a big profile builder for their company as well.

“For me personally, it’s something I never thought would happen,” said James. "I’ve known site managers who have gone their entire careers trying to win one of these without success. To even make the shortlist for the regional ceremony (BIC in Bournemouth) is extremely difficult, the process is hard work and something you have to consider and focus on every day. I’m immensely proud of the team’s effort and our joint commitment to really push for the award this year – it’s one of those accolades that sticks with you forever.”

Keith Carnegie, chief executive of Vistry Housebuilding, said: “James’s Seal of Excellence is a fantastic result and we’re delighted to be celebrating this latest achievement with him. James is a very hard worker and part of an excellent team here in Basingstoke.”

For more information about the history and operations of the NHBC Pride in the Job Seal of Excellence Awards, please click here.

For a breakdown of our courses in Construction and Built Environment, please click here.