Young roofers to compete on national stage

From April to July, roofing apprentices from around the UK demonstrated their skills at regional heats to gain a place at this year’s SkillBuild Final, taking place on the 17th-19th November, at NEC Birmingham.

The competition, organised by the National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC), saw fifty-five competitors taking part in one of eight heats, which were overseen by three judges, Matt Timby, Simon Dixon and Bob Coutts, who’s vast experience of roofing competitions range from a past SkillBuild winner to a recognised mentor for the international competition: World Championship for Young Roofers.

NFRC are 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) Ltd
• Harry Hillam – Thompson – Timby Traditional Roofing
• Harry Pennock – J Chillingsworth Roofing Contractor
• Lee Dowding – Dylan Faber Roofing Ltd
• Liam Watson – West Country Tiling Co.
• Sam Blount Graham – Barker Roofing Services
• Tom Knight – Wheeler Roofing Services Limited
• William Emerton – Emerton Roofing (Western) Ltd

The competition forms a part of the Skills Show, the nation's largest skills and careers event, giving the competitors and the roofing industry a greater platform in which to showcase roofing.

Looking ahead to the final, Livia Williams, Head of Training for NFRC, said, “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, NFRC has taken a leading role in organising the national SkillBuild roofing competition and working 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.”

Throughout the heats, and for the final, special thanks must go to the three NFRC Supplier Members who have kindly provided materials; John Brash & Co. Limited, Klober Ltd and Wienerberger Ltd.

NFRC wishes all competitors the very best of luck for the final. Those interested in supporting the competitors, and to gain a better understanding of the competition, can book free tickets at www.worldskillsuk.org.