SkillBuild
Celebrating rising talent
NFRC, along with our Supplier Members, has been a long-standing supporter of SkillBuild for many years and encourages any roofing apprentice or trainee with skills, grit, and determination to enter and put their talent to the test.
Have you got what it takes?
SkillBuild is a nationwide series of competitions designed to showcase and develop the talents of apprentices and trainees across the construction sector, culminating in a National Final each November.
As participants progress through the stages, they are assessed not only on their technical expertise, but also on essential workplace attributes such as time management, professionalism and commitment. Taking part can play an important role in building confidence, boosting self-esteem and developing wider life skills that support long-term career success.
What does it involve
The SkillBuild 2026 Regional Qualifiers are now in progress, bringing together emerging talent from across the UK to compete in the industry’s largest skills competition. This year has seen exceptionally strong interest, with more than 1,100 competitors from 223 organisations signing up to take part.
There are ten catergories in total, including slating and tiling. Regional qualifiers begin in March, all of which take place in training centres or colleges across England. Competitors are tasked with completing a project relevant to their trade under the observation of expert judges who mark their work throughout. The eight highest scoring individuals take a place in the SkillBuild National Final.
The first qualifier event in slating and tiling was held at Langley Training Services on 26 March, kicking off a series of 6 heats running nationwide through to 4 June. The final qualifier will take place at Coleg Cambria in Wales.
Throughout the competition, results from each event are tracked, allowing participants and employers to follow progress and see who is performing strongly across the different trades.
This year, entrants are able to download the project drawing ahead of the competition, giving them additional time to plan, prepare, and practice.
When is it
The first roof slating and tiling qualifier was held on 26 March at Langley Training Services. The following dates for slating and tiling are:
- 31 March – Dundee & Angus College
- 6 May – Exeter College
- 14 May – Newcastle College
- 2 June – Leeds College of Building
- 4 June – Coleg Cambria
Sponsors
The slating and tiling category is kindly sponsored by manufacturers and merchants whose kind donations ensure allow a fair competition across each regional heat, as well as donating materials for the finals in November.
wienerberger UK
SIG Roofing
SR Timber
Hambleside Danelaw
Why enter
It's a huge opportunity to put your talent to the test, gain recognition from the industry, and help give your career a competitive edge. Not only that, but it's a three-day trip with hotel stay and a chance to meet new tradespeople and build valuable connections.
