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West College Scotland to host national plumbing apprentice competition in June

The event is organised by Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation and is widely regarded as a flagship fixture in Scotland’s apprenticeship calendar.

West College Scotland to host national plumbing apprentice competition in June
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West College Scotland has been selected to host the 51st annual Scottish Plumbing Apprentice of the Year (SPAY) competition, taking place at its Paisley campus on 12th June 2026.

The event is organised by Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation and is widely regarded as a flagship fixture in Scotland’s apprenticeship calendar.

Having marked its 50th anniversary in 2025, the competition has supported more than 1,300 apprentices and continues to showcase emerging talent in the plumbing and heating sector.

The competition comes at a time when concerns around skills shortages and the long-term sustainability of apprenticeships are growing.

SPAY said it aims to highlight the role apprentices play in supporting infrastructure, public health and the transition to low-carbon technologies.

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Anne Campbell, principal and chief executive of West College Scotland, said: “We are absolutely delighted that West College Scotland has been selected to host this year’s Scottish Plumbing Apprentice of the Year competition.

“We are proud to play a leading role in developing the next generation of highly skilled plumbing professionals.

“Competitions like SPAY showcase the talent coming through the sector and highlight the importance of high-quality, industry-aligned training in meeting future workforce needs.

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“We are thrilled to welcome competitors, partners and colleagues from across SNIPEF and beyond to our campus for what promises to be an inspiring event.”

The SPAY competition will test apprentices across three areas: copper pipework, leadwork and renewable technologies.

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These categories are designed to reflect both traditional craftsmanship and the increasing importance of sustainable practices within the industry.

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Fiona Hodgson, chief executive of SNIPEF, said: “In a safety-critical profession like plumbing and heating, apprenticeships not only create lifelong careers, but skills essential to Scotland’s infrastructure, development and economic growth.

“The SPAY competition, alongside our ongoing efforts to upskill and modernise the curriculum, help demonstrate SNIPEF’s commitment to see the next generation prepared for the pivotal roles of the future, while also providing a platform to showcase the exceptional talent and dedication of our apprentices.

“By investing in talent today, we are safeguarding the standards, innovation and professionalism that will define our industry for decades to come.”