Ryan FowlerThree of Scotland’s top plumbing and heating apprentices have won their categories at the 50th anniversary Scottish Plumbing Apprentice of the Year (SPAY 50) competition.
The event, held at South Lanarkshire College in East Kilbride on 13th June, saw 40 finalists compete in Copper, Leadwork and Renewable Technologies disciplines. Organised by SNIPEF, the competition recognises high standards of craftsmanship and innovation in the industry.
Calum MacRitchie from Hamilton, an apprentice at Malcolm McArthur & Son Ltd and student at South Lanarkshire College, won the BPEC SkillPLUMB Copper competition. MacRitchie said: “It feels really good to win the competition, though it was a bit of a surprise on the day, to be honest. I took part in 2024 and was disappointed with my performance, so it’s great to see my improvement after putting in a lot of hard work over the past year.” Neil Collishaw, chief executive of BPEC, said: “Calum’s success reflects the exceptional quality of training delivered by his college and employer, as well as his own dedication and ability.”
In the Leadwork category, sponsored by City Plumbing, Frazer Graham from Fochabers – an apprentice at Moray Council and UHI Moray – took first place. Fellow UHI Moray apprentice Sweyn MacAskill came third. Graham said: “It feels good to have won, having put in a lot of hours to get here, and it’s really paid off.”
Arren John MacMillan, an apprentice at John Frood & Sons and student at South Lanarkshire College, won the Renewable Technologies category sponsored by MCS. MacMillan said: “It’s surreal, and a really good end to a difficult week. I didn’t expect to win, so it’s a really nice surprise. But I couldn’t have done it without the team. The lecturers here aren’t just your teachers, they’re like your best pals – it makes it so much easier.”
Stephanie Lowe, deputy chief executive of SNIPEF, said: “The performances from both South Lanarkshire College and UHI Moray highlight the incredible commitment across Scotland’s college network to delivering world-class apprenticeship training. These apprentices are not just gaining practical skills, they are building future-proof careers that will help drive innovation, sustainability and excellence across our profession.”
