Introducing the first-ever BTX Carpentry & Joinery Learner Of The Year Competition! This competition is designed to showcase the talent of the next generation in the construction industry. Student and apprentice Carpenters & Joiners nationwide will compete in a live, practical test designed and judged by City & Guilds. The top three from each Regional Heat will go through to compete in the Grand Final in April, with the chance of becoming our first-ever BTX Carpentry & Joinery Learner of the Year. The competition is designed to highlight emerging talent and give students a platform to showcase their skills.

After an amazing start to our first Regional Heat at Bath College – Somer Valley Campus, we are excited to announce the first three Finalists of BTX Carpentry & Joinery Learner of the Year 2026! A massive congratulations to Reece Brand from Cornwall College, St Austell, Harry Addicott from Exeter college, and Alfie Simpson from Exeter College.

BTX South Regional winner Reece Brand from Cornwall College, St Austell.

BTX South Regional 2nd place Harry Addicott from Exeter college.

BTX South Regional 3rd place Alfie Simpson from Exeter College.

The regional stage of the competition came to a close with our Northern heat at Wigan & Leigh College, Pagefield Campus, and it was a fantastic day. A massive congratulations to our three Northern finalists of the BTX Painting & Decorating Learner of the Year 2026 competition: Callum Greep from Wigan and Leigh College, Samuel Jones from Trafford and Stockport College Group and Wesley Baron from Wigan and Leigh College.

BTX North Regional winner Callum Greep from Wigan and Leigh College.

BTX North Regional 2nd place Samuel Jones from Trafford and Stockport College Group.

BTX North Regional 3rd place Wesley Baron from Wigan and Leigh College.

A huge congratulations to everyone who competed in BTX Carpentry & Joinery Learner of the Year 2026! The standard of work has been incredible, and all of the competitors should be immensely proud of the work that they have been able to produce. 

Thank you to all our sponsors, judges, and supporters who make these competitions possible, and to the amazing hosting colleges. BTX Carpentry & Joinery Learner of the Year 2026 is proudly sponsored by Paslode UK, SawStop, Tembe DIY, British Woodworking Federation, Fix Radio, Hultafors, Snickers Workwear and City & Guilds.

Stay tuned on social media to follow the action @btx_uk using #BTXCARPENTRY26.