THE ROOFING apprentices reaching the SkillBuild 2024 national finals have been announced after a record number of competitors took part in this year’s Regional Qualifiers.

SkillBuild, delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), is a prestigious showcase for construction talent. It is the largest and longest-running industry skills competition in the UK.

This year attracted more competitors than ever, with over 1,000 students battling it out across 10 construction trade categories during the 19 Regional Qualifiers. The one-day events, where learners were asked to complete a set task relevant to their chosen trade, also saw the most women and more competitors from ethnic minorities taking part.

A total of 78 students – the highest scorers in each category – will go head-to-head in the National Final at the Marshall Arena, Milton Keynes this November, where the 10 winners will be crowned top of their trade.

SkillBuild 2024 Finalists

The Roof Slating and Tiling finalists are:

Levente Szasz – Leeds College of Building
George Jewitt-Knot – Leeds College of Building
Daniel Sperry – Leeds College of Building
Samuel Jinks – Leeds College of Building
Hamish Morgan – Edinburgh College
Jack Mayo – South Devon College
Alfie Waddington – Leeds College of Building
Joseph Gallagher – Bolton College

During the three-day final, the competitors will be expected to construct a slating and tiling project within an 18-hour period. The expert panel of judges will assess them on a number of aspects – including technical ability, time management, problem solving, skills working under pressure, and compliance with health and safety requirements.

With CITB’s annual industry forecast highlighting that more than 250,000 extra construction workers will be required by 2028 to meet demand. SkillBuild is an important platform for raising the profile of the sector and awareness of the diverse range of roles on offer.

Richard Bullock, Head of Careers Products at CITB, said: “It’s brilliant to see a record number of competitors in the SkillBuild 2024 Regional Qualifiers showcasing the best new talent coming into the sector.

“It is a critical time for skills development and training within the construction industry. SkillBuild inspires potential new entrants towards construction, highlighting the value that a trainee or apprentice can add to a business and demonstrating the incredible quality that can be achieved when talented, dedicated individuals are well supported to achieve their potential.

“SkillBuild is a great opportunity that helps young people to grow in confidence and build the professional and technical skills that will underpin a fantastic career in construction. I wish all our competitors every success as they take on this year’s National Final, and we look forward to seeing you in November!”

Tickets for the SkillBuild National Final 2024 (20-21 November 2024) at the Marshall Arena in Milton Keynes are available.

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