Talented student plumbers are being encouraged to enter this year’s SkillPLUMB competition. The registration window is open now and runs until 28 March.
During the competition, entrants will be judged on a series of challenging practical tests in a bid to be named the 2024 SkillPLUMB champion. The event is the only industry competition aligned to the WorldSkills network; those who do well at UK level may have the chance to compete internationally at WorldSkills Shanghai in 2026.
All those who register will take part in an initial practical task carried out at the competitor’s college or training provider. This work will be tutor-assessed and then the scores and evidence will be moderated by SkillPLUMB and WorldSkills UK. Those who are successful will be invited to one of the UK-wide qualifying heats taking place across May-June. The top scoring competitors from all qualifying heats combined will reach the UK grand final in November.
SkillPLUMB is open to apprentices and Level 2 or 3 plumbing students. The event, designed to promote and showcase high standards and skills across the plumbing industry, is organised by the BPEC Charity.
"For over 20 years the BPEC Charity has been involved in delivering and supporting skills competitions – and we’re very proud to do so,” said Neil Collishaw, BPEC Chief Executive. “SkillPLUMB is a great way to showcase the talented plumbing students and apprentices we have across the UK. It’s important we attract more people to enter the industry and the skills competitions are a great vehicle to inspire others to consider a career in plumbing and heating.”
The BPEC website has more information on the competition, an in-house training task to help prepare competitors, and details on the events taking place across the UK. To find out more visit www.bpec.org.uk/skillplumb