BMI college tour kicks off in National Apprenticeship Week

We look forward to National Apprenticeship Week at the BMI Academy, even though it’s the time of year we spend the least time at the Academy. That’s because it marks the start of our annual college tour.

BMI’s dedicated trainers will be visiting colleges and training groups from Devon to Dundee to personally invite roofing apprentices to apply for the BMI Apprentice of the Year competition.

Our trainers work with training centres throughout the year to support the apprenticeship programmes. Whether it’s providing materials, support to the tutors or best practice advice, it’s all part of BMI’s plan to support apprentices, and the industry as a whole. This is vital when we’re facing a skills shortage, and further highlights the importance of the BMI Apprentice of the Year competition.

Now in its eighth year, the competition offers a chance for roofing apprentices to show off their skills and passion for the industry, as well as meet industry experts, and be in with the chance to win an impressive cash prize and training opportunities.

We’ll choose up to 20 apprentices from the applicants. Over two days, they will be challenged to show off the skills needed to excel in a career in roofing. Not just technical ability, but also teamwork, presentation skills, marketing and commercial acumen.

The apprentices that make it to the final have an opportunity to meet - and learn from - some of the best people in their field. Previous finalists have made fantastic contacts, and the experience has boosted their confidence. It’s really worth putting an application in.

At the end of the two days, the judges (both from within and outside BMI) will choose two winners: one in flat roofing and one in pitched roofing. The winners will receive a £1000 cash prize and three years’ worth of free training at the BMI Academy, so it’s a big support to their career.

Our trainers always enjoy meeting the next generation of roofers, whether they enter the competition or not. Watch this space for more news from the road!

Click here to submit your entry to BMI Apprentice of the Year 2025