MK TO HOST 2023 SKILLBUILD FINALS

[THE NATIONAL FINAL of this year’s SkillBuild – the annual construction skills competition – will take place at the Marshall Arena in Milton Keynes.

SkillBuild is delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and showcases some of the brightest talent, as highly-skilled learners and apprentices go head-tohead to be crowned winner of their chosen trade. Competitors are tested on their technical abilities, time management, problem solving and skills working under pressure. The prestigious competition comes with many benefits, having been proven to improve technical and employability skills, as well as advancing career options.

From 27 April to the end of June colleges across the UK have been hosting the regional qualifiers of the largest and longest-running competition of its kind, with approximately 1,000 students taking part.

Following the regional qualifiers the top eight scoring competitors from each trade category will take part in the UK national final. This year is the first time the national final will take place at the Marshall Arena in Milton Keynes, on 21, 22 and 23 November 2023. The arena has previously played host to the National Badminton Championships, darts tournaments and various music concerts.

West College Scotland

T: 0300 600 6060

E: info@wcs.ac.uk

W: www.westcollegescotland.ac.uk

Paisley Campus, Renfrew Road, Paisley, Renfrewshire PA3 4DR

Tim Balcon, CITB’s chief executive, commented: “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, it’s also proven to assist them professionally by developing their technical and employability skills.”

Running alongside the competition, venues have been hosting Construction Showcase events, inspiring young people to consider a career in construction.

Jade Oakes (pictured top) won Gold in the Painting and Decorating category last year. Speaking about the competition, 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!” q

Wiltshire College & University Centre

T: 01225 530150

E: info@wiltshire.ac.uk

W: www.wiltshire.ac.uk

Located in Chippenham, Lackham, Salisbury and Trowbridge