SkillBuild is the UK’s largest multi-trade construction skills competition for apprentices and trainees, giving learners the chance to put their skills to the test on a national stage. With ten different competition categories, competitors begin at regional heats, and only the very best earn a place at the national finals.
Dudley College is still relatively new to SkillBuild, having entered our first learners in 2023 and hosted our first regional heat in 2024. Despite this, our learners have already made a big impression. In 2024, Blake, who was just 19 at the time, progressed all the way to the national finals. Although he didn’t place that year, he didn’t let it knock his confidence. Instead, Blake returned in 2025 more focused and determined than ever, once again reaching the national finals and going on to secure a second-place finish.
Blake’s passion for plastering is unmistakable. Having worked alongside his father at Elevations UK from an early age, it is a trade he truly lives and breathes. Learners like Blake are a joy to teach; his commitment to learning, willingness to push himself and passion for his craft are genuinely inspiring and reignite the passion that drives educators within the sector.
The national finals take place over three days, with competitors completing a range of plastering tasks, including dabbing, float and set, rendering, fibrous and a freestyle section. The competition brings together modern techniques such as Mono and silicone rendering alongside traditional skills like running and setting out fibrous work. Attention to detail, neatness and waste management are all part of the marking, making it a true test of skill and professionalism. This is far from a simple skimming exercise — the tasks set are challenging and, in many cases, would test even qualified plasterers, especially given the strict time limits.
The freestyle section is a real highlight of the competition. Competitors design and produce a piece of work using multiple plastering elements. Blake chose to push himself even further by combining several techniques into one piece. This section really allows competitors to show not just their technical ability, but also their creativity.
Walking into the competition hall is an experience like no other. You can feel the excitement, nerves and adrenaline in the air, not just from the competitors but from everyone there to support them. Families, friends, training providers and teaching staff from across the country are all present, alongside industry experts, employers, suppliers and organisations supporting mental health awareness and SEND learners. It’s a diverse, positive and welcoming environment that really highlights the future of the construction industry and the talent coming through. It has been a privilege to attend two national finals with Blake and to see first-hand the incredible standard of work on display.
A huge thank you goes to Keith Langton, Master Plasterer of K. L. Langton Decorative Plasterwork Ltd, for giving up his time to deliver fibrous plastering workshops for Blake and other competitors. Special thanks must also go to CITB, British Gypsum, the event sponsors and the judges, whose continued support makes SkillBuild possible.
Lath and Plaster 