An apprentice joinery student from North Lindsey College has been recognized as a national winner at the SkillBuild National Final 2025. This prestigious event, organized by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), took place at MK Arena in Milton Keynes from November 19-21, 2025. The competition showcased the skills of 80 of the UK’s most talented construction trainees, who represented ten different trades.
Henry Duck, the apprentice joinery student, emerged victorious after three days of rigorous competition. Participants were tasked with completing a complex project within 18 hours, while a panel of expert judges evaluated their performance based on technical ability, time management, problem-solving skills, and adherence to health and safety standards.
Reflecting on his achievement, Duck expressed surprise at his win, stating, “It’s a fairly big achievement, I surprised myself to be honest, I didn’t think I would win. The task was quite tricky, but it was a great experience, and I feel like I’ve learnt a lot from it.”
Significance of the Competition
Competitions like SkillBuild play a crucial role in demonstrating the diverse career opportunities within the construction industry. With government statistics indicating that 946,000 young people aged 16–24 are currently not engaged in education, employment, or training, SkillBuild provides a clear pathway into skilled careers.
Neil Frow, Carpentry and Joinery Lecturer at North Lindsey College, praised Duck’s performance, saying, “As Henry’s tutor, I’m incredibly proud of what he’s achieved in winning a national competition. It’s a huge achievement for him and the college, and one that’s fully deserved.”
Frow highlighted Duck’s ability to manage pressure effectively, stating, “During the competition, Henry handled the pressure really well. He stayed focused, worked safely, kept his area organised, and didn’t let the environment affect the quality of his work. That level of professionalism stood out and played a big part in his success.”
This victory not only reflects Duck’s dedication and work ethic but also underscores the importance of vocational training in the construction sector.
Addressing Industry Demand
The demand for skilled workers in the construction industry continues to grow. According to the CITB’s Construction Workforce Outlook, the UK will need more than 47,000 additional construction workers each year by 2029. This trend reinforces the promising career prospects available for those entering the field.
Duck’s accomplishment serves as an inspiration for aspiring tradespeople and showcases the potential that lies within vocational education. As the construction industry evolves, events like SkillBuild are essential in nurturing new talent and ensuring that the workforce is prepared to meet future demands.
