Apprentice Ricky Booth secures double win in regional competitions

Huge congratulations to Glasgow Clyde College student Ricky Booth, who has achieved a standout double win in two of the UK’s toughest trade competitions.

Ricky, 32, a second-year painting and decorating apprentice with Persimmon Homes West Scotland, came out on top against some of the country’s best apprentices.

He secured first place in the Scottish regional heat of the PDA Premier Trophy Apprentice Award 2026, earning his place in the national final this June.

He then delivered another winning performance at the regional heat of SkillBuild, widely recognised as the construction industry’s “Skills Olympics”, placing first in his category. He is now awaiting confirmation on progression to the national final.

Ricky said:
“I’m really proud to have won both competitions. It’s been a lot of hard work, but it’s great to see it paying off.

“Competing against the best apprentices in the country pushes you to improve, and I’m looking forward to whatever comes next.”

William Smith, Senior Regional Apprenticeship Manager at Persimmon Homes, said:
“Ricky’s achievements are outstanding.

“To win two major regional competitions against such strong competition shows the level of skill, dedication and professionalism he brings to his trade.

“He’s a great example of the talent coming through our apprenticeship programme, and we’re all very proud of his performances.”

We are incredibly proud of Ricky’s achievements. His success is a fantastic reflection of his hard work and commitment, and of the high standard of students across our apprenticeship programmes.