Throughout April to July this year, roofing apprentices from around the UK have been demonstrating their skills at regional heats to gain a place at this year’s SkillBuild Final, taking place from November 17-19 at NEC Birmingham.
The competition, organised by the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC), has seen 55 competitors take part in one of eight heats, overseen by judges Matt Timby, Simon Dixon and Bob Coutts, whose experience of roofing competitions range from a past SkillBuild winner to a recognised mentor for the international competition: World Championship for Young Roofers.
The NFRC says it is pleased to announce that the following eight young roofers, who secured highest marks from across all the regional heats, will be heading to the final:
– Andrew Emerton – Emerton Roofing (Western)
– Harry Hillam – Thompson – Timby Traditional Roofing
– Harry Pennock – J Chillingsworth Roofing Contractor
– Lee Dowding – Dylan Faber Roofing
– Liam Watson – West Country Tiling Co.
– Sam Blount Graham – Barker Roofing Services
– Tom Knight – Wheeler Roofing Services
– William Emerton – Emerton Roofing (Western)
The competition forms a part of the Skills Show that gives the competitors and the roofing industry a greater platform in which to showcase roofing.
Livia Williams, head of training at the NFRC, commented: “We are looking forward to this year’s final, where the best roof slating and tiling apprentices across the UK will be going head to head to deliver the highest level of skill to claim the Gold Medal, and to secure a coveted place in the UK Team for the Young Roofer World competition (IFD).
“Over the years, the NFRC has taken a leading role in organising the national SkillBuild roofing competition and works closely with roofing colleges, employers, supplier manufacturing members and CITB. We have seen an immense value in encouraging and showcasing our best young talent and creating role models to inspire the next generation.
“The Skills Show is, therefore, a great opportunity for the roofing industry, with the support from the regional roof training groups, in engaging with year 11 school leavers, and their parents, in helping to address industry image, recruitment of new entrants and promoting careers in roofing.”
