30 Jan 2018
Registration for SkillFRIDGE 2018 is now open with a new refreshed format. Any apprentice studying Level 2 RACHP upwards can now take part following the removal of the upper age limit.
The SkillFRIDGE competition is composed of three stages:
Registration Stage
To ensure that competitors have been verified and are of a standard to enjoy and benefit from the skills competition, a preliminary test must be carried out by a training provider and scores must be submitted at the point of registration.
National competition
Regional heats will be held from May to August throughout the UK. Registered competitors will complete a series of tasks under strict time schedules and have their work assessed by a panel of specially selected industry experts.
The competitor that achieves the highest score nationally will be crowned the SkillFRIDGE National Winner, and will be invited to receive their accolade at the BESA Awards in October.
WorldSkills UK National Final (Eligible competitors)
The seven highest scores from the national competition (subject to being eligible under WSUK guidelines) will be invited to compete at the WorldSkills UK Skills Show in November.
The highest scoring competitor during the WorldSkills UK final will be presented with a trophy and their respective training provider will receive the SkillFRIDGE shield at the ACR News Awards in January 2019. High scoring apprentices will also be considered to represent Great Britain at the International WorldSkills competition.
An exciting and and competitive platform, SkillFRIDGE aims to attract and inspire a new generation of engineers thus addressing the growing demand for skills in the refrigeration, air conditioning and heat pump sector.
For more information and to get involved, visit www.skillfridge.co.uk.
13 Feb 2026
This new strategic education and skills forum is designed to align training provision with the needs of employers across the sector and to act as the industry’s authoritative voice to awarding bodies, government, and policy stakeholders.
18 Feb 2026
Have you considered a career in technical teaching? BESA is currently offering a Skills Legacy Programme to help fund teacher training for 100 engineers to become trainer or assessor.
17 Feb 2026
The I’m a Scientist initiative might be exactly what you’re looking for.
If you work in STEM (engineering is included!) you can take part in this programme designed to connect professionals with students aged 10 to 18.
16 Feb 2026
The Institute of Refrigeration announced at the IOR Annual Dinner that two members have been recognised as Fellows for their leadership and contribution to the RACHP industry. Their achievements include a scope of different areas, including promoting skills, technical development and international outreach.
13 Feb 2026
During her speech at the IOR Annual Dinner on 12th February 2026, IOR President Lisa-Jayne Cook FInstR reaffirmed the Institute’s commitment to placing members and skills at the forefront of its agenda.