SPEAK TO US
Hire Quote
Hire
Depot
My
Our Smiths Training Manager, Katie Patchett-Field and Smiths Hire Marketing Manager, Leigh Walker had the honour of being invited to attend the regional heat at Preston College for the SkillBuild 2025, the UK’s largest multi‑trade skills competition delivered by CITB (Construction Industry Training Board). It provides apprentices and trainees a platform to showcase their skills by completing a set task relevant to their chosen field— competing in categories such as bricklaying, carpentry, joinery and roof slating just to name a few. Once the Regional Qualifiers have finished, the marks are collated and the eight highest-scoring competitors in each specialist skill go through to the next round – the SkillBuild National Final.
Over 500 students, tutors and construction industry professionals attended the event organised and championed by Zac Wilkinson, Assistant Director for Construction & the Built environment for Preston College and John Hardman, a Construction consultant who decades of industry experience. The event was a huge success and a real credit to CITB, Preston College and all involved.
We were excited to speak to students and visiting colleges and reveal our upcoming collaboration with Preston College….
Smiths Hire & Smiths Training Partner with Preston College
Preston College, already a key Institute of Technology partner, contributes its industry‑standard facilities, digital learning spaces, and strong employer links. With the construction industry an area with a recognised skills shortage Preston College attracts a variety of learners looking to learn more about specific trades, offering programmes in everything from Brickwork, Joinery and Carpentry, to Painting & Decorating, Wall & Floor Tiling and Plumbing, Gas and Electrical Installation.
Taught in purpose built workshops, by our highly experienced, industry experts, we also offer more advanced levels for those looking to progress through qualification levels, or for those already working in industry looking to upskill your existing abilities.
As part of a major push to fast‑track construction talent, Smiths Hire, Smiths Training, and Preston College are joining forces on a new initiative called “Site Ready“
Together, we’ve created “Site Ready“, an enhanced education pathway within Preston College’s construction curriculum. Students will now access:
On‑site practical training using real tools and equipment.
Accredited qualifications through Smiths Training (e.g., IPAF, Qualsafe and NVQs).
Employer‑informed modules covering site safety, digital techniques, and employability skills.
How Site Ready Works
Integrated into College Courses
Construction students at Preston College benefit from additional training days, rotating between classroom learning and on‑site practical sessions facilitated by Smiths.Industry‑Relevant Certification
Through Smiths Training, students complete key accreditations—like IPAF or PASMA – that set them apart in the job market.Employer Calibration
Smiths Hire’s equipment and Smiths Training’s expertise ensure students work with the same materials, machines, and processes used on live sites—making the jump to work seamless.Early Work Readiness
Graduates leave fully Site Ready—not just certified, but confident with tools, health and safety, and real employer expectations.
Why It Matters
Bridging Skills Gap: With a national shortfall in construction skills, Site Ready helps meet industry demand by delivering work-ready recruits.
Accelerated Career Prospects: Students emerge with recognised qualifications and practical experience, making them highly employable from day one.
Collaboration at its Best: This initiative embodies the power of education-industry partnerships—combining academic rigor, practical skills, and direct employer input.
With Site Ready, students won’t just pass; they’ll graduate ready to work. A powerful example of how Preston College, with the support of Smiths Hire and Smiths Training, are shaping the future of UK construction. Equipping tomorrow’s workforce today!
