SkillBuild 2026 Finalists Announced
Over 1,100 competitors entered the regional skills qualifiers in 2026, demonstrating the continued demand from young talent to earn a place in the coveted national final, taking place on 18–19 November 2026 at Arena MK in Milton Keynes.
Congratulations to this year’s finalists in Roof Slating and Tiling:
- John Watson - S. Niven & Sons
- Calum Mitchell - Exeter Collage
- Luke Lewis - Leeds College of Building
- Kieran Lord - Bolton college
- Aidan Phee - South Lanarkshire College
- Harley Catchpole - Exeter College
- Brooklyn Smith - Newcastle college
- Rudi Powch-Scott - Edinburgh College
Qualifiers ran through March to June across the UK, with an impressive turnout of eager competitors testing their talent whilst under the watchful eye of expert judges.
Competitors will now hope to build on their experience of working against the clock in the qualifiers, with the national final presenting a unique challenge of constructing a slating and tiling project within 18 hours.
“Remaining calm and composed is a key asset in the final,” explains Ben Rowlands, NFRC Technical Manager–Pitched Roofing and Solar Integration.
“The task itself might feel second nature to some competitors, but with the added pressure of being against the clock, expert judges monitoring every element, and two days of working in front of an audience as hundreds of people come along to watch the final–that’s a whole different ball game” Ben continues.
Anyone can attend the national final, which is free and open from 18-19 November at Arena MK. Alongside watching the competition unfold in each trade, visitors can speak with experts from across the industry to learn more about pathways and career opportunities, and take part in interactive, hands-on workshops to get a taste for different construction skills.
NFRC thanks the suppliers, manufacturers and merchants who contributed their time and materials to the qualifiers and final:
- Wienerberger UK
- SIG Roofing
- Hambleside Danelaw
- SR Timber
