Local Talent Shines in SkillsBuild UK Competition
Apprentice Matt Lee from North Notts College has clinched first place in the regional SkillsBuild competition for bench joinery. The event was held on 14th May at Barnsley College’s Cube campus, a renowned facility dedicated to construction and sports education. Students representing various colleges including Scarborough, Lincoln, Derby, and Leeds participated.
Matt Lee’s accomplishment is particularly noteworthy considering the high level of skill and precision required in bench joinery. For his winning piece, Matt crafted a complex non-parallel obtuse frame with four corner joints, featuring intricate mortise and tenon joints. His work was meticulously assessed at every stage, from the initial drawing and machine use to the final assembly. Despite stiff competition, Matt’s expertise and meticulous attention to detail earned him the top spot, followed by:
- Matthew Lee – North Notts College
- Nathan Thompson – Leeds College of Building
- Logan Jones – The Sheffield College
The regional competition at Barnsley College was a hive of activity, featuring multiple categories such as site carpentry, bricklaying, plastering, tiling, and cabinet making. North Notts College had a strong showing with three additional students—Jack Ives, Owen Hunt, and Joseph Moore—competing in site carpentry, although they were not placed. Notably, the winners in site carpentry were mature students from Lincoln College, further demonstrating the high calibre of competition.
Winning the regional round means Matt will now progress to the national finals, taking place at the Marshall Arena in Milton Keynes from 18-22 November 2024. Success there could propel him onto the international stage, with opportunities to participate in European and even global competitions. Held across three days, this event will be a rigorous test of skill and stamina, with the top eight from the regional competitions fighting for the top spot.
Preparation for these competitions is intense, with students practising extensively on challenging pieces. For Matt, this hard work and dedication paid off. He attributed part of his success to the practice sessions with mock-ups similar to those used in national finals, which helped him refine his skills and focus on detail.
“You can’t buy passion or take pride in your job. It’s an adrenaline rush that’s unique to this field. Matt’s win marks a milestone for North Notts College, being the first regional win in bench joinery for the college. Staff and students are filled with pride after Matt’s victory, and we all have high hopes for him in the upcoming national finals.”
Richard Drury, Apprenticeship Skill Instructor
Matt’s journey underscores the importance of dedication, practice, and the right support. As he prepares for the next stage, his success already sets a powerful example for his peers and the wider community. His story is one of perseverance and excellence, promising a bright future for this talented young joiner.
Find out more about construction courses at North Notts College.