Screwfix’s Trade Apprentice competition is back for 2025 as the retailer continues its mission to recognise and celebrate the very best trade apprentices across the UK and Ireland.
For more than a decade, Screwfix Trade Apprentice has helped young tradespeople boost their career. Previous finalists have shared their thoughts on the future of the industry, tackled sustainability issues, and emphasised the important role apprentices play in addressing the trade skills gap.
The winner will receive a career-boosting trade bundle worth £10,000, including £5,000 of tools, a £3,000 training budget, and £2,000 worth of technology. The champion’s college will also receive £2,000 worth of Screwfix vouchers to spend on workshop equipment, helping to upskill tomorrow’s trade professionals.
Matthew Rutherford, an apprentice carpenter from Bangor, County Down, won the 2024 competition and was the first Screwfix Trade Apprentice champion from Northern Ireland. At just 19 years old, Matthew impressed judges with his proposal for a product called ‘DoorMate’ which addressed the common problem of hanging doors correctly.
Commenting on his win, Matthew said: “Winning this competition meant a lot to me. I have always been incredibly passionate about the work that I do.
“Being crowned Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2024 not only provided me with a confidence boost, but it also helped me develop my skills to go further in the industry.
“Since winning, I’ve had the opportunity to get involved with other Screwfix initiatives. I visited Parliament to discuss trade skills and the importance of them for the UK’s growth. It was an incredible experience and one I never imagined I’d have the chance to be a part of.”
Alongside winners of Screwfix’s Top Tradesperson competition, Matthew spoke to Lords, MPs and civil servants at the Houses of Parliament to share insights about the importance of attracting fresh talent into the industry.
The event followed a recent Screwfix report, which highlighted that 79% of SMEs and sole traders have been unable to take on an apprentice due to financial concerns, shining a light on the importance of providing greater support for small businesses.
Jack Wallace, Marketing Director at Screwfix said: “As a retailer to the trade, we’re committed to championing tradespeople across the UK. We are dedicated to supporting the construction industry because it plays a vital role in providing jobs, enhancing infrastructure and driving economic growth.
“Screwfix Trade Apprentice recognises and celebrates apprentices while also highlighting the crucial contribution they make to the trade industry.
“Every year we see an increase in talented young people applying, which makes choosing a winner a difficult decision for our judges. We know what a difference this competition makes to the apprentices who reach the final and we’ve seen them go on to excel in their careers. It’s a fantastic opportunity, so don’t miss out.”
Free to enter, Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2025 is open to all trade apprentices who are currently enrolled at college, either on a part-time placement with an employer, or as a full-time college student. Not only can apprentices apply themselves, but they can also be nominated by their college or employer. All applicants must be over the age of 16.
Apply at Screwfix.com/SFTA. Entries are open until midnight on Sunday 23rd February 2025.
