AROUND 1,000 students from across the UK are preparing to compete in the annual SkillBuild 2023 regional qualifiers.
SkillBuild is delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and showcases some of the brightest talent, as skilled learners and apprentices go head-to-head to be crowned winner of their chosen trade.
Competitors will be tested on technical abilities, time management, problem solving and skills working under pressure.
There are 15 regional qualifiers taking place across the UK from 27 April to the end of June. Running alongside the competition, venues will host a Construction Showcase event, designed to inspire young people to consider careers in construction. With thousands of primary and secondary school children due to attend, alongside local and national employers, the events will feature interactive activities and learning opportunities.
Following the regional qualifiers, the top eight scoring competitors from each trade category will be invited to take part in the UK national final. For the first time, this year’s national final will take place at the Marshall Arena in Milton Keynes from November 21-23.
Jade Oakes won gold in the painting and decorating category last year. She said, “The whole experience from beginning to end was fantastic. I was able to compete against some of the best across the country, meet professionals in our trade and make so many new friends along the way. It felt like a dream come true to win gold at such a prestigious competition!
“For those about to compete, I would say enjoy every second! It’s not all about competing, it’s about putting yourself into an environment to thrive and meet so many amazing individuals along the way. Good luck, have the best time and paint your very best!”
Tim Balcon, CITB chief executive, commented, “I always look forward to the SkillBuild regional heats, as it’s the first glimpse we get into the fantastic variety of young talent coming through to industry. SkillBuild is a wonderful initiative which aims to attract a diverse range of recruits, and with the current skills gap, it places even greater importance on the competition and its ability to promote construction careers to a wider audience.
“SkillBuild not only helps young people to grow personally, increasing their confidence and social skills, but it’s also proven to assist them professionally by developing their technical and employability skills. While a challenging experience, if you’re serious about a career in construction, SkillBuild is an excellent opportunity. I wish all competitors the very best of luck for the heats this year!”
To find out more about SkillBuild and the regional qualifiers, visit Go Construct.
