After more than 1,000 registrations and 17 regional heats, the top construction trainees from across the UK have been named as competitors at the SkillBuild National Final 2023.
Delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), SkillBuild showcases some of the brightest talent in construction. The prestigious competition brings together highly skilled learners and apprentices to battle it out to be crowned winner of their chosen trade.
The West Yorkshire regional heats took place in June at Leeds College of Building across eight different disciplines. This year, a record number of Leeds College of Building students were selected for the national final and the largest cohort from any single college in the UK.
Archie Kitching (Brickwork), Daniel Fairclough and Nathan Richards (Plastering & Drylining Systems), Newton Robinson and Wesley Proud (Plastering), George Jewitt-Knott, Aeron Murray, and Daniel Sperry (Roof Slating & Tiling), and Sam Cowgill (Wall & Floor Tiling) will all represent Leeds College of Building at the competition.
For the first time, this year’s final will be held at the Marshall Arena in Milton Keynes, England on 21, 22 & 23 November 2023. The arena has previously played host to the National Badminton Championships, major darts tournaments and various music concerts, and will now see 80 of the best construction trainees demonstrate their expertise.
Across the three days, competitors will be tasked with constructing a project designed by an expert panel of judges, within an 18-hour timeframe. The project will test the individual’s knowledge and skills, as well as their ability to work under pressure, ensuring they adhere to health and safety protocols.
CITB's latest Construction Skills Network (CSN) report states that almost 225,000 extra workers will be required to meet UK construction demand by 2027. SkillBuild is a fantastic opportunity to alter common misconceptions of the industry and promote the diverse range of roles available.
Mark Sims, Leeds College of Building Skillbuild Coordinator, said: "This year, we had 24 of our learners compete at the regional competition. We were overwhelmed and proud to have nine of these participants secure their place in the national finals.
"The dedication, hard work, and commitment applied by both learners and staff is second-to-none and evidenced by the standard of work produced in the training sessions leading up to the national finals. We, as a college, would like to wish each and every competitor the best of luck and hopefully our learners will secure some medal places."
Time and date
CONSTRUCTION DIRECTORY
Construction News
20/11/2023
Leeds College of Building Students Prepare For SkillBuild National Final

Latest Construction News
01/12/2023
Plans have been approved to transform a key site in the heart of Trowbridge town centre in Wiltshire. The plans for the former Bowyer's factory site, which has been vacant since 2008, include: • A new gateway development, providing 255 new homes for first time buyers, young families and ...
01/12/2023
Major repair work on a historic footbridge in Blaendulais is now complete. The bridge, which crosses the Neath and Brecon freight line at Blaendulais, had been closed for more than three years after Network Rail engineers' safety inspection found it required major repairs. The wrought-iron ...
01/12/2023
Developer Downing has hosted 'topping out' ceremony to mark the first phase of its major £400 million shared living scheme, Square Gardens. As part of First Street, Square Gardens will bring 1,301 new homes to one of Manchester's fastest growing and vibrant neighbourhood communities, with a mix ...
01/12/2023
Willmott Dixon has completed the once-in-a-generation £132 million transformation of Bristol Beacon, one of the most iconic cultural landmarks in the South West of England. It has taken five years and involved more than a million hours of time to create a flagship venue that will attract thousands ...
01/12/2023
Harron Homes has appointed Lee Kirkland as Construction Director for its Yorkshire region. With over 20 years in the construction industry, Lee brings a wealth of experience to his new role overseeing the development and delivery of luxury homes across Yorkshire. Starting out as an apprentice ...
01/12/2023
Crest Nicholson has acquired a 13-acre site to deliver 88 new homes in Faversham. The development, which will be called Crown Meadows, follows the sell out success of Crest Nicholson's nearby Kingsmead development. The new community will offer a range of two to five bedroom new homes to suit a ...
01/12/2023
In this edition, we have exciting updates and industry insights to share with our valued partners and customers. As leading suppliers of aluminium scaffold towers, podium steps and bespoke access products we are committed to delivering high- quality solutions to meet your access needs. Here's ...
01/12/2023
Selecting the appropriate duct sealing system is a crucial decision, and with the diverse range of technologies available, finding the right fit can be challenging. At AC Cable Solutions, we understand the importance of tailoring solutions to specific needs. In this guide, we'll walk you through ...
30/11/2023
Building work has begun at Sonar Portsmouth, a 4.5-acre industrial site which offers seven highly sustainable new units. Built in the heart of Hilsea, Portsmouth, Sonar's units will range from 5,479 to 35,220 sq ft. The new scheme is targeting both BREEAM Excellent and EPC A ratings. The buildings ...
30/11/2023
Wates has commenced work on Hartlepool’s new multi-million-pound leisure centre, Highlight. The firm was appointed Hartlepool Council. A range of preparatory site works and the discharging of planning conditions have all commenced ahead of the start of groundworks, which will include the ...