Ayrshire apprentices to compete in Scottish SkillBuild 2025

Persimmon Homes apprentices Chantelle Muir and Frankie O'Dea selected by Ayrshire College for prestigious national competition in Dundee.

Persimmon Homes has unveiled that apprentices Chantelle Muir, a bricklayer from Ayr, and Frankie O'Dea, a painter and decorator from Kilmarnock, have been selected by Ayrshire College to compete in the Scottish SkillBuild competition in 2025.

The event, taking place on 10 June 2025 at Dundee and Angus College, is a key regional competition for the UK’s most promising apprentices. SkillBuild, delivered by CITB, is the UK’s largest construction competition, attracting over 1,000 trainees from across the country. Apprentices will be tested on their technical abilities, time management, character, and commitment, providing them with a platform to build confidence, enhance skills, and showcase their talent.

Chantelle Muir, who began her apprenticeship with Persimmon in 2022, will compete in the bricklaying category. Having quickly established herself as a skilled and committed apprentice, Chantelle is determined to excel in the competition and take the top spot.

Frankie O'Dea, who joined Persimmon in 2023 as a painting and decorating apprentice, is eager to "brush aside the competition" in his event. Frankie’s attention to detail and passion for his craft have made him stand out, earning him the John Mather Award at Ayrshire College.

William Smith, Persimmon Homes Regional Apprenticeship Manager, said:
"We are incredibly proud of Chantelle and Frankie for being selected to compete in SkillBuild. This is an excellent opportunity for them to demonstrate their skills on a national stage and advance their careers in construction. We look forward to supporting them through this exciting challenge."

Frankie O'Dea added:
"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!"

SkillBuild Regional Qualifiers take place across the UK each year, with apprentices completing a trade-specific task within a 6-hour time frame. The top eight highest-scoring competitors from each category will then progress to the National Final, where the best in the country compete for the title.

For more information on SkillBuild and to follow Chantelle and Frankie’s progress, visit www.citb.co.uk.