A record number of Leeds College of Building students have been selected for the national final of SkillBuild 2023, the college has announced.
Scores were tallied following the conclusion of the regional qualifiers and nine Leeds College of Building students selected for the national competition. This is the most finalists the college has ever had shortlisted and is reportedly the largest cohort from any single college in the UK.
Fifteen regional qualifiers took place across the UK, with Leeds College of Building hosting the final West Yorkshire regional event across North Street and Southbank Campuses on 29 June.
Competing trades included Bricklaying, Bricklaying Level 1, Roof Slating & Tiling, Carpentry, Joinery, Painting & Decorating, Plastering, Plastering & Drywall Systems, and Wall & Floor Tiling.
Competitors were tested on their technical abilities, time management, problem-solving, and skills working under pressure. The prestigious competition is proven to improve competitors’ technical and employability skills, as well as advancing career options.
Over 45 learners participated in the West Yorkshire heat representing 11 regional colleges and seven independent employers. The College put forward 20 of its own students across a range of disciplines.
Mark Sims, Leeds College of Building lecturer and competition coordinator, said: “Every one of our learners worked so hard and certainly carried the Leeds College of Building name forward as an institution to be reckoned with. Of the 27 top three spots across trades in the West Yorkshire heats, Leeds College of Building secured 18 places, which is an incredible achievement for our students and their tutors.
“When the successful competitors were finally announced for the national finals, I was absolutely gobsmacked by the results. Our learners have secured a massive nine finalist places, which is the biggest number the college has every secured.”
The Leeds College of Building students selected for the finals are:
- Brickwork – Archie Kitching (1st place in West Yorkshire regional qualifier)
- Plastering & Drylining Systems – Daniel Fairclough, Nathan Richards (1st and 2nd places respectively)
- Plastering – Newton Robinson, Wesley Proud (1st and 2nd places respectively)
- Roof Slating & Tiling – George Jewitt-Knott, Aeron Murray, Daniel Sperry (1st, 2nd, and 3rd places respectively)
- Wall & Floor Tiling – Sam Cowgill (1st place)
