Regional competitions

Every route to the national stage starts with a divisional heat. They run between December and January, hosted by a polytechnic or technical training centre in each division.

What a heat day looks like

You arrive the evening before or early in the morning, draw your workstation, and get a familiarisation period with the machines. The test project is handed out on the day — you will not have seen it. Then you work, usually six to eight hours, with the judges marking as you go rather than only at the end.

What you need to bring

Your own hand tools and PPE. Machines, materials and consumables are provided. Each skill page lists the exact kit for that skill.

Travel support

If the journey to your divisional centre costs more than you can carry, apply for travel support at the same time as your entry. It is assessed on distance and need, not on how likely you are to win.

Host institutes