Abingdon & Witney students compete in construction contest

The pilot event, held on May 6, brought together apprentices and full-time learners from the college’s construction programmes who competed in realistic, trade-based tasks set to industry standards.

Competitions took place across three campuses, with electrical installation and design, surveying, and planning held at Abingdon, plumbing at Witney, and carpentry at Bicester.

Mark French, head of the Bicester Construction Skills Centre, said: “Events like this give our learners the chance to experience real industry expectations, build confidence and showcase their skills.

“It’s also a fantastic way to bring together staff, employers and partners to celebrate the talent we have across our construction provision.”

Throughout the day, students demonstrated technical knowledge and problem-solving under simulated workplace conditions.

Judging and presentations took place in the afternoon, with members of the College’s Senior Management Team and Governing Body visiting each campus to meet learners and observe the competition.

The event was supported by a range of industry partners who offered sponsorship, judging, and prizes.

These included Beard Construction, CITB, CIPHE, Screwfix, GLT Electrical Wholesalers, Jim Cousins Trust, VitrA, MKM Building Supplies, Breedon’s, and Henstridge Construction.

The event strengthened links between full-time courses and apprenticeships, supporting clearer progression pathways for learners.

Following its successful debut, the college plans to make the event a yearly fixture, with the potential to include additional subjects and greater employer involvement.