After a successful career in carpentry, fine joinery, and furniture making, Chris Tridgell set out to retrain as a Design and Technology teacher. During his first year, he discovered a strong passion for the pastoral side of education—youth work, mentoring, and supporting students beyond the classroom. His own turbulent youth experiences gave him a unique ability to understand and connect with young people.

Chris then began working in youth clubs, schools, and alternative education settings, mentoring and coaching while teaching DIY and construction skills to hard-to-reach young people.

In 2022, he launched a small provision within a school he was working in, which proved hugely successful. Students thrived as he blended mentoring and coaching with practical tasters in various trades, using a model that celebrated mistakes as opportunities for growth. This approach helped young people build confidence, life skills, and practical abilities.

This experience inspired the creation of Build A Skill CIC, a programme dedicated to empowering young people through hands-on learning, mentorship, and the development of both practical and pro-social skills.

Director and founder

Chris Tridgell-Wyatt

Key Skills & Expertise:

Chris brings over 20 years of experience in carpentry and fine joinery, alongside 11+ years supporting young people through mentoring and social/skills education. He is trained in first aid, health and safety, youth work, child phycology and holds an enhanced DBS clearance.

Key Skills & Expertise:

• Behaviour management, de-escalation, and conflict resolution.

• Pro social and life skills education.

• Pastoral care, mentoring, and SEMH support

• Collaboration with schools, local authorities, and mental health services

• Qualifications in youth work, child phycology, joinery, first aid and health and safety in design and technology.

• 17 years experience in martial arts.

• Anger management.