Scaffolding apprentices have taken part in a live skills demonstration at WorldSkills Ireland 2026, with hopes that the trade could become a full competition category at next year’s event.
The demonstration at the RDS in Dublin involved apprentices from the two-year Scaffolding Apprenticeship Programme delivered at the LOETB National Construction Training Campus in Mount Lucas, Co. Offaly.
Dave Mosley took on the role of Chief Examiner for the scaffolding demonstration, overseeing competitors as they carried out practical tasks based around industry training and safety standards.
Scaffolding instructor Fergus Sheerin was also involved, with the completed structure built by apprentices forming part of the display for visitors attending the event.
Putting scaffolding in front of new entrants
WorldSkills Ireland brings together apprentices, students, employers and training providers, giving young people an opportunity to see different skilled trades first-hand.
For scaffolding, the demonstration gave visitors a closer look at the practical skills required in the trade and the apprenticeship route now available in Ireland.
Apprentices carried out a series of practical scaffolding tasks throughout the event, giving those attending an opportunity to see the training standards expected during the programme.
The Mount Lucas campus was represented by Campus Manager John Kelly, Scaffolding Apprenticeship Programme Manager Yvonne Kearney, Amy Hanlon and Darren Burke.
Full competition targeted for 2027
Those involved now hope the demonstration can lead to scaffolding becoming a full live competition category at WorldSkills Ireland in 2027.
That would move the trade beyond demonstration status and place scaffolding alongside other recognised skills competitions at the event.
The Scaffolding Apprenticeship Programme is delivered at the LOETB National Construction Training Campus in Mount Lucas, Daingean, Co. Offaly.
Further information about the apprenticeship programme is available from Mount Lucas on [email protected] or +353 57 936 2508.
