*Applications for Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2025 are open
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.
Now in its fifth year in Ireland, Screwfix Trade Apprentice aims to uncover the best new talent in the industry. 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.
This year’s champion will walk away with the coveted title as well as a career-boosting prize 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.
Sean O’Shea (pictured), a trainee plumbing and heating engineer from County Cork, who reached the Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2024 final, said: “As a young apprentice, taking part in last year’s competition was a career highlight. Not only does Screwfix Trade Apprentice recognise the hard work and passion of young tradespeople, but it provides an excellent opportunity for anyone looking to take the next step in their careers. I came away with skills and confidence that will stand to me for the rest of my career. I cannot recommend it enough.”
According to the National Apprenticeship Office, the State agency tasked with coordinating and driving apprenticeship expansion in Ireland, there were a record number of more than 9,000 apprentice registrations in 2024, reflecting the continued demand for highly skilled workers in this area.
This ground-breaking milestone demonstrates the growing appeal of apprenticeships with more and more young people availing of ‘earn while you learn’ opportunities and developing essential skills that are vital for meeting the needs of the Irish economy within housing, energy, and more.
Jack Wallace, Marketing Director at Screwfix said: “As a retailer to the trade, we’re committed to championing tradespeople across the UK and Ireland. 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.
Think your apprentice is a cut above the rest? 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.ie/SFTA. Entries are open until midnight on Sunday 23rd February 2025.