What is SkillBuild?

A series of competitions sees the very best compete against each other to be crowned a winner in their chosen trade. As each level of competition progresses, competitors will be tested on their technical abilities, time management, character and commitment.  Helping to develop confidence, self-esteem and life skills.

Register for SkillBuild 2025!

The largest construction competition for apprentices and full-time learners in the UK is back and this year, following on from an incredible National Final, it’s even bigger and better!

Register to compete in your nearest Regional Qualifier taking place in 15 locations across the UK. Tutors and employers can enter on behalf of apprentices and learners, too. With ten different trade categories to compete in, there’s something for everyone.

How does the competition work?

The Regional Qualifiers run UK-wide, from April to July each year. These one-day events bring together apprentices and trainees who complete a set task relevant to their trade. Once the Qualifiers have finished, the marks are collated and the eight highest-scoring competitors in each specialist skill go through to the next round – the SkillBuild National Final.

SkillBuild Competition Rules 2025 (PDF, 177KB) contains more detailed information.

The SkillBuild competition categories are:

Regional Qualifiers – dates and locations

  • 24 April 2025 – City College Plymouth
  • 8 May 2025 – Oaklands College, St. Albans
  • 13 May 2025 – Burnley College
  • 15 May 2025 – Stockport and Trafford College
  • 20 May 2025 – SERC – Northern Ireland
  • 29 May 2025 – Moulton College, Northamptonshire
  • 3 June 2025 – Coleg Menai
  • 10 June 2025 – Dundee and Angus College
  • 12 June 2025 – HES Stirling
  • 17 June 2025 – Dudley College of Technology
  • 17 June 2025 – Exeter College
  • 19 June 2025 – Preston College
  • 24 June 2025 – Newcastle College
  • 26 June 2025 – York College
  • 1 July 2025 – Leeds College of Building

Sponsors and supporters

Take a look at our sponsors and supporters who make SkillBuild possible every year.

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Contact Us

Email us at skillbuild@citb.co.uk with any other questions or queries you might have.