Time to shine – registration opens for SkillBuild 2022

The largest and longest-running construction skills competition in the UK returns, as registration opens for SkillBuild 2022.

SkillBuild is delivered by CITB and forms a part of WorldSkills UK, often dubbed the ‘skills Olympics.’ As preparations for another year get underway, WorldSkills UK are on the look-out for talented construction trainees to go head-to-head in a bid to be crowned the winner of their chosen trade.

The regional qualifiers run UK-wide, from April to June each year. During the one-day event, competitors will be tested not only on their technical abilities, but on their time management, problem solving and skills working under pressure.

Across WorldSkills as a whole, there are more than 60 competitions available. Included in this are nine Foundation Skills competitions aimed at learners with special educational needs and disabilities, additional learning needs, or who need additional support for learning. Those who excel in the qualifiers will be invited to take part in the national finals, in November 2022.

CITB’s recent Rethinking Recruitment report highlights the need to attract more individuals into construction, as well as encourage more employers to consider alternative recruitment methods. The report states that only a third of the research respondents said construction is for someone like them. Covering 11 different trades, SkillBuild is a fantastic opportunity to alter perceptions and promote the diverse range of roles available.

Tim Balcon, CITB Chief Executive, said: “We have a big challenge on our hands with the current skills gap and demand for more workers. It’s clear, now more than ever, we should be nurturing new talent and encouraging those individuals to pursue a career in the construction industry.

“SkillBuild is a wonderful initiative that not only helps young people grow personally, increasing their confidence and social skills, but it’s also proven to assist them professionally by developing their technical and employability skills.” If you would like to take part or know someone whose skills should be showcased, visit Go Construct for more information. Registration for WorldSkills UK’s national skills competitions is open from 28 February – 1 April 2022.