Edinburgh College duo lay the foundations for national award success
An Edinburgh College duo have laid the foundations for national award success as they prepare to compete against some of the country’s most talented apprentices, after winning the regional heats of one of the UK’s most prestigious construction competitions earlier this year.
Construction students Andrew McHale Ross McDougall, who learn from College lecturers while working for their employer, bagged a place in the National Finals of the UK-wide SkillBuild competition, after excelling at the Scottish regional heats held at Dundee and Angus College in June.
Andrew and Ross will take on some of the most talented apprentices from across the country as they represent the College in the Bricklaying and Plastering competitions respectively at the Arena MK in Milton Keynes on Wednesday 19 and Thursday 20 November.
SkillBuild is delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and showcases some of the UK’s brightest talent. During competitions, they are tested on their technical abilities, time management, problem solving and skills working under pressure.
I was lucky enough to be put forward by my lecturer for the Scottish SkillsBuild heat, and winning first place was a real highlight. Finding out I’d made the top eight across all heats and getting the chance to compete in the upcoming finals was an amazing feeling. I can’t wait to get going!Andrew said:
We’re incredibly proud of Andrew and Ross for coming in first place in their respective heats. They have represented the College incredibly well, showcasing impressive levels of skill and professionalism throughout the competition. We wish them all the best as they compete in the National Finals!Assistant Principal for Construction and Engineering Scott Warden said: