BMI's College Roadshow - Your Questions Answered

FAQs from BMI’s college roadshow

Stuart Farndell, Technical Trainer at BMI Academy 

Speaking to roofing apprentices face-to-face is a key part of our role at the BMI Academy. It’s what makes our annual college tour so exciting. After all, apprentices are essential to the future of the industry. 

That is why the BMI Apprentice of the Year competition is so important. It’s a fantastic opportunity for roofing apprentices to show off their skills, meet other apprentices, and make connections in the industry. 

So here we answer a few questions we had about the application process while we were on the road…

Why are you doing this? 

We’re facing a skills shortage in roofing and construction more generally, so it’s important we do everything we can to encourage people in the early stages of their career. BMI has the ability and the facilities to organise this competition, so we think this is a great way to support our current generation of apprentices, improving retention rates. 

I’m not a great writer. Will this count against my application? 

Absolutely not. The questions are intended to help us get to know you. You don’t have to write your answers at all. You’re welcome to film a video instead. No fancy equipment is needed - just your phone.

Is the application free? 

Yes, everything about the competition is free of charge to applicants. That means travel and accommodation for finalists will be paid for too. 

What sort of roofing apprentices can apply? 

Both pitched and flat roofing apprentices can apply for the competition. Flat roofing apprentices can be specialising in either Bitumen or Single Ply.  

Is there an upper age limit? 

No. There’s no age limit for apprenticeships, and therefore no age limit for applications either. Entrants must be a roofing apprentice or student (in either flat or pitched roofing) currently working towards qualified status and the competition is open to residents of the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man and the Republic of Ireland, aged over 16 years.

What is the timeline? 

Applications close at midnight on 14th April 2025. Up to 20 finalists will be notified in May, and will be invited to the two day finals event on 24th and 25th July in Gloucestershire. They’ll be sent all the information they need ahead of time. 

Can I bring someone with me to the final? 

Your tutor / trainer will be invited to attend with you, and your employer will be invited to the Awards Dinner on the evening of the second day.