Coleg Cambria Learners Excel at WorldSkills UK National Finals

Coleg Cambria has achieved notable success at the WorldSkills UK National Finals, where eight of its talented learners and apprentices showcased their skills. This prestigious event, often referred to as the “Skills Olympics,” took place in Wales for the first time and featured over 400 of the UK’s top apprentices competing across five venues in more than 40 skill areas, such as Engineering, Construction, and Beauty Therapy.

The competitors from Cambria, hailing from Wrexham and Deeside, took on demanding challenges carefully crafted by industry experts. These tasks were designed to rigorously assess technical ability, precision, teamwork, and resilience under pressure. The college’s outstanding performance contributed to a record-breaking year for Wales, which fielded its largest-ever team of 122 competitors.

Coleg Cambria’s learners brought home impressive accolades, including two Gold, three Silver, four Bronze, and two Highly Commended awards contributed by North Wales learners in partnership with employers like Airbus UK. The overall Team Wales secured a total of 57 medals, highlighting a strong showing from the region.

Recognizing Dedication and Excellence

Robert Jones, Cambria’s Skills Competition Lead, expressed his pride in the students’ achievements. He stated, “This would not have been possible if it were not for the specialist workshops, bespoke training, pressure tests, and the high calibre of training delivered by our technical training officers, lecturers, and training managers who have been a key part of their journey from competition entry to the national finals.”

Assistant Principal for Technical Studies at Deeside, Lisa Radcliffe, emphasized the hard work behind each medal. “Each medal represents countless hours of hard work and the unwavering commitment these learners have shown to mastering their craft. We are immensely proud of their achievements and inspired by the bright futures they are creating through skill, determination, and excellence.”

Beauty Therapy tutors Ruth Payton and Charlotte Darbey commended the medal-winning duo for their composure and focus during the competition. Jamie Mapp-Jones, Curriculum Director for Full-time Apprenticeships, noted, “These results highlight the exceptional standard of skills training at Coleg Cambria and the dedication of our learners, staff, and employer partners. Their achievements demonstrate what is possible when talent, passion, and high-quality teaching come together.”

A Bright Future Ahead

Reflecting on his journey, Aircraft Maintenance gold medallist Robert Jones shared his determination to excel. “After taking gold at Skills Competition Wales and Silver at Nationals, I was determined to go for gold this time. The experience has been invaluable – representing Wales makes me so proud.”

The success of this year’s medallists opens the door for participation in Squad UK, offering the opportunity to represent the country at future international WorldSkills competitions.

For more information about WorldSkills UK, visit www.worldskillsuk.org. To stay updated on news from Coleg Cambria, visit www.cambria.ac.uk.