SNIPEF’sflagship apprenticeship event will bring Scotland’s top plumbing talent together on 12 June 2026.
West College Scotland has been chosen by the Scottish and Northern Ireland Plumbing Employers’ Federation (SNIPEF) to host the 51st annual Scottish Plumbing Apprentice of the Year (SPAY) competition at its Paisley campus on 12 June 2026.
The SPAY competition, organised by SNIPEF, has long been recognised as a flagship event in Scotland’s apprenticeship calendar. Having marked its 50th anniversary in 2025, it has long been the launchpad for the skilled professionals of the future – showcasing the life-changing potential of apprenticeships for more than 1,300 apprentices over the years.
At a time where the sustainability of apprenticeships is under pressure, combined with a decreasing availability of skilled workers, the importance of a trusted pipeline of talent is more important than ever. SPAY aims to give a platform for the next generation and highlight the vital role apprentices play in supporting the national economy, its infrastructure and the nation’s low-carbon ambitions.
The SPAY competition challenges apprentices in three distinct areas: copper, leadwork, and renewable technologies, each assessing crucial skill sets from precision in copper pipework and traditional craftsmanship in lead work to innovative solutions in renewable technology installations. These categories reflect the diverse skills required of a plumbing and heating professional and underscore the ongoing transition towards sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.
The event is expected to draw participants from across Scotland’s further education network and spectators from across Scotland, offering apprentices a unique opportunity to network with peers and industry leaders.
