Students from Leeds College of Building (LCB) have delivered one of the institution's strongest-ever performances at the regional heats of SkillBuild 2026, the largest construction skills competition for trainees and apprentices in the UK.

Delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), the SkillBuild initiative consists of a series of regional qualifiers held across the UK. Testing technical expertise, technique, character, professionalism, and the ability to work under pressure, the event covers 12 separate trade specialisms.

LCB hosted one of the regional qualifiers at its South Bank and North Street Campuses on 2 June. Out of 78 competitors taking part on the day, LCB students secured 13 of the top 27 places available. Nationwide, more than 1,100 competitors representing 223 organisations entered the SkillBuild 2026 competition.

Mark Sims, Leeds College of Building SkillBuild Coordinator, said:  "We are so proud that so many of our students took part in SkillBuild this year, with thirteen placing 1st, 2nd, or 3rd in their respective trades. All our entrants demonstrated exceptional commitment and professionalism, and we were very proud of every one of them. These results are testament to the dedication, hard work, and commitment of our learners and the amazing staff supporting them."

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LCB's winners now await the judges' decision on qualification for the national final. The eight top-ranked competitors from across all the regional heats will be selected to battle it out at Stadium MK in Milton Keynes from 17–19 November.

The college has a fantastic track record in SkillBuild competitions. Last year, two LCB apprentices were crowned winners of the national final, securing first and second places in the Roof Slating & Tiling category. In 2024, four LCB students took podium positions, with three students winning medals in 2023. In 2022 apprentice Zara Dupont came first in Plastering & Drywall.

The 2026 Leeds College of Building regional winners are:

• Carpentry

1st place: Oliver Harrison 

• Dry Lining

1st place: James Naylor 

2nd place: Ali Dehghani 

3rd place: Oliwier Mocarski 

• Furniture & Cabinet Making

2nd place: Dylan Jones 

3rd place: Haitch Rosso 

• Painting & Decorating

2nd place: Faith Loynes 

• Plastering

1st place: Spencer Lee 

• Roof Slating & Tiling

2nd place: Luke Lewis 

3rd place: Stephen Anderson 

• Wall & Floor Tiling

1st place: Ashton Webber 

2nd place: Thomas Bewick 

3rd place: Ben Cahill  

Learn more about SkillBuild or visit

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