SkillBuild National Final 2025

The SkillBuild National Final is the UK's biggest construction skills competition – bringing together the top apprentices and learners from across the UK to compete head-to-head and be crowned the best in their trade.

After 1,000+ registrations, 10 trades and 16 Regional Qualifiers, the highest-scoring competitors have earned their place at the grand final. Join us at Arena MK, Milton Keynes as they put their skills to the ultimate test.

The competition is open to the public on:

• Wednesday 19 November 2025, 09:00–16:00
• Thursday 20 November 2025, 09:00–15:00

Entry is free – but make sure to book a ticket as they will be scanned on entry.

Watch the UK's top talent in action across 10 skilled trades:

• Bricklaying
• Carpentry
• Drylining
• Furniture and Cabinet Making
• Joinery
• Painting and Decorating
• Plastering
• Roof Slating and Tiling
• Stonemasonry
• Wall and Floor Tiling

Across two days, you'll see competitors tackle complex construction projects designed by industry experts - testing their creativity, precision and time management at every stage. You can follow the action up close from the designated walkways on the arena floor, or head up to the first-floor balcony for a full view of the competition – with food and drinks available while you take it all in.

Once the builds are complete, the competitors’ work will be assessed by a panel of expert judges. On Thursday evening, the top performers will be revealed at the SkillBuild National Final Awards Ceremony. Competitors will enjoy a celebratory three-course dinner before the ceremony opens to the public, where friends, family and visitors can join in celebrating their incredible achievements.

Get hands-on in our interactive Construction Showcase – a careers experience hub where visitors of all ages can try out real construction activities, talk to industry experts and discover pathways into the trades.

Open:

• Wednesday 19 November – 09:00–15:00
• Thursday 20 November – 09:00–15:00

We will also proudly be delivering the SEND Learner Showcase, a non-competitive demonstration celebrating diversity and inclusivity within the construction industry.

Taking place on Balcony 2 on Wednesday 19 November from 09:00, this four-hour showcase will feature learners from four different colleges, each with a range of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). They’ll be demonstrating entry-level skills across a variety of trades, including Woodworking, Plastering, Wall & Floor Tiling and Painting & Decorating

Venue: Arena MK, Milton Keynes, MK1 1ST

Easily accessible from the A5, with plenty of nearby amenities including shops and eateries. The arena includes balcony viewing areas and visitor refreshment bars.

Booking: Attendance is free, but booking is required. Your ticket is valid for both days and make sure to bring this with you.

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