West College Scotland has been selected by the Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers' Federation (SNIPEF) to stage the 51st Scottish Plumbing Apprentice of the Year (SPAY) at its Paisley campus on 12 June 2026.

Organised by SNIPEF, SPAY is a long‑standing highlight of Scotland's apprenticeship calendar. After celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025, the competition has helped launch the careers of more than 1,300 apprentices, demonstrating the life‑changing impact of apprenticeships.

With apprenticeship sustainability under pressure and a shrinking pool of skilled workers, the event underscores the need for a dependable pipeline of talent. It aims to showcase the next generation while underlining apprentices' vital contribution to the national economy, infrastructure, health and welfare, and Scotland's low‑carbon ambitions.

Anne Campbell, Principal and Chief Executive of West College Scotland, said: "We are absolutely delighted that West College Scotland has been selected to host this year's Scottish Plumbing Apprentice of the Year competition.

-- Advertisement --

"We are proud to play a leading role in developing the next generation of highly skilled plumbing professionals. Competitions like SPAY showcase the talent coming through the sector and highlight the importance of high‑quality, industry‑aligned training in meeting future workforce needs. We are thrilled to welcome competitors, partners and colleagues from across SNIPEF and beyond to our campus for what promises to be an inspiring event."

The contest will test apprentices across three disciplines — copper, leadwork and renewable technologies — assessing precision in copper pipework, traditional craftsmanship in lead work, and innovative approaches to renewable installations. Together, these categories reflect the breadth of skills required of modern plumbing and heating professionals and the sector's shift towards sustainable practices.

Fiona Hodgson, Chief Executive of SNIPEF, said: "In a safety-critical profession like plumbing and heating, apprenticeships not only create lifelong careers, but skills essential to Scotland's infrastructure, development and economic growth.

"The SPAY competition, alongside our ongoing efforts to upskill and modernise the curriculum, help demonstrate SNIPEF's commitment to see the next generation prepared for the pivotal roles of the future, while also providing a platform to showcase the exceptional talent and dedication of our apprentices.

"By investing in talent today, we are safeguarding the standards, innovation and professionalism that will define our industry for decades to come."

The event is expected to draw competitors from across Scotland's further education network and spectators from around the country, offering apprentices valuable opportunities to connect with peers and industry leaders.