WINNER: Ellie Doddridge, Building Plymouth Technical Construction Apprentice of the Year 2026
Congratulations to Ellie Doddridge, winner of the Building Plymouth Construction Technical Apprentice of the Year 2026.
Ellie has progressed impressively through her training, beginning with a T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction and a Level 4 HNC in Construction and Digital Innovation. She is now completing a Higher-Level Apprenticeship in Quantity Surveying Technician and Construction Site Supervision with City College Plymouth, in partnership with the University of Plymouth and Classic Builders.
Upon receiving the award, Ellie said: “I feel incredibly grateful to be receiving this award. The people and networks around me have truly supported me, encouraged me, and helped me get to where I am today. I couldn’t be more thankful.”
Her relationship with Classic Builders began in 2022 during a T Level summer placement. Her strong work ethic secured her an extended placement, allowing her to gain valuable onsite experience alongside her studies. Despite a setback early in her course, where she received a D in her first exam, Ellie showed exceptional determination. Her hard work led her to achieve an A* in her final exam and an overall Distinction. As a result, Classic Builders offered her a Management Trainee/Apprenticeship position beginning in September 2025.
Since joining the company, Ellie has made meaningful contributions across the business. She has supported BREEAM documentation processes, improved communication with external partners, and introduced a new ‘e‑log’ system to streamline maintenance workflows. On site, she has gained the trust of operational teams and confidently carries out daily safety checks, assists site managers, and prepares O&M manuals.
Her positive attitude and enthusiasm make her highly valued by colleagues and tutors. Director Adam Brimacombe praised her impact: “Ellie is proving to be a key member of the team and has shown us that she can already be trusted to independently carry out important tasks that are vital to the running of the business. She is well-liked and always has a smile on her face, and I’ve had nothing but positive feedback from all parts of the company. I have no doubt that she will excel at anything she puts her mind to”.
Her talent was also recognised during her T Level, where she was selected for an international learning trip to South Africa and awarded the Dedication and Growth Award 2025. Her tutor Helena Procter, commented:
“I can’t tell you enough how proud we are of Ellie, she really is our star student. Consistent in her approach, so kind and a really bright star going into industry!”.
Her mentor at Classic Builders, Tracy Harrison, said: “We are so proud of her achievements and contributions to the business already and look forward to seeing where her sparkling career will take her”.
Alongside her apprenticeship, Ellie has actively taken part in Building Plymouth Aspiring Rising Talent Network (BPART) activities, gaining insight into industry roles, networking with professionals, and building confidence. Reflecting on the experience, she said: “One of my favourite parts of the BPART programme was networking with other construction apprentices and construction companies within the construction industry, allowing me to gain an insight into different job roles and responsibilities. It has been really beneficial for me, as it has helped me build confidence, develop a clearer understanding of career pathways within Plymouth, and connect with professionals who have offered valuable guidance. The programme has also helped strengthen my employability skills and given me a better sense of direction for my next steps”.
Ellie has consistently shown ownership of her learning, a willingness to take on challenges, and a strong drive to progress. Her achievements, growth, and professionalism make her a standout apprentice and a deserving winner of the Building Plymouth Construction Technical Apprentice of the Year 2026.