Persimmon Homes Apprentices Selected for Prestigious National Skills Competition
Two talented apprentices from Persimmon Homes, Chantelle Muir and Frankie O’Dea, have been chosen by Ayrshire College to compete in the esteemed Scottish SkillBuild competition, set to take place on 10 June 2025 at Dundee and Angus College.
SkillBuild, organised by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), is the UK’s largest and most prestigious construction skills competition, drawing over 1,000 trainees nationwide. The event challenges participants on their technical skills, time management, commitment, and character, offering a platform to build confidence and showcase their talent on a national stage.
Chantelle Muir, a bricklaying apprentice from Ayr who joined Persimmon in 2022, will compete in the bricklaying category. Known for her dedication and skill, Chantelle has quickly made a name for herself and is determined to take the top spot at the event.
Representing the painting and decorating category is Frankie O’Dea from Kilmarnock. Since starting his apprenticeship with Persimmon in 2023, Frankie has impressed with his precision and passion, earning the prestigious John Mather Award from Ayrshire College. Eager to make his mark at the competition, Frankie said, “I’m excited to represent Persimmon and Ayrshire College at SkillBuild. I’ll give it my all and aim to brush aside the competition to win in painting and decorating!”
William Smith, Regional Apprenticeship Manager at Persimmon Homes, expressed his pride in the pair:
“We are incredibly proud of Chantelle and Frankie for being selected to compete in SkillBuild. It’s a fantastic opportunity for them to demonstrate their abilities, grow professionally, and be recognised for their hard work. We’ll be supporting them every step of the way.”
The SkillBuild Regional Qualifiers are held annually across the UK, with each apprentice completing a trade-specific task within a six-hour time limit. The top eight scorers in each category will advance to the National Final, where the country’s most skilled apprentices will battle for the title of best in their trade.
