Competitions & awards
From students just starting out to Master Joiners, the Institute runs, judges and supports competitions that inspire people to work in wood and set the highest standards of craft.
Something for every stage
Our competitions & awards
Apprentice of the Year The IOC Rainleaf Trophy
Our flagship award for apprentices in carpentry and joinery. Colleges and employers nominate the apprentices who stand out – for skill, attitude and commitment to the craft.
Find out more and nominateCarpenters’ Craft Competition
For studentsThe only national competition open to students of carpentry, joinery and shopfitting. Work is judged by industry leaders, with prizes of up to £500.
Find out more →Duchess of Gloucester Award
Held every two yearsFor the advancement of skills within the timber industry, presented in the name of our Royal Patron.
Find out more →Previous winners
Past championsCelebrating the students and apprentices who have won our competitions over the years.
See previous winners →Competitions we support
SkillBuild
For trainees & apprenticesThe annual multi-trade competition across ten craft occupations, with regional heats at colleges in England, Scotland and Wales and a national final.
Visit SkillBuild →The Wood Awards
For projects in timberFounded in 1971 as the Carpenters’ Award and relaunched in 2003, recognising excellence in UK architecture and furniture made from timber, completed in the last two years.
Visit the Wood Awards →Master Certificate Scheme
Craftsman · Journeyman · MasterRun by the City of London livery companies with City & Guilds. IOC members working in carpentry can be considered for the Master Joiners’ award.
About the scheme →Give yourself the best chance
Competitions build your knowledge, skills and motivation – and can improve your job prospects after college.