Students from New College Lanarkshire (NCL) were the clear winners at Worldskills UK.
More than 400 apprentices and students competed in over 40 events at the country’s biggest test of technical abilities, held in Manchester, covering everything from hairdressing to cyber security.
When the medals were awarded in the city’s Bridgewater Hall, NCL was top of the heap.
Some of those winners will now go on to represent the UK, the global edition of the competition, know as the “skills olympics”.
Professor Christopher Moore, principal and CEO of NCL, said: “Congratulations to those students and staff who worked so hard to achieve first place at WorldSkills UK.
“It is a fantastic accolade that shows how much talent there is here at New College Lanarkshire; and just how committed our lecturers are to our students’ growth and improvement.
“Thanks to all the staff who made it possible, the students who trained tirelessly to reach their full potential and to all the supporters who have cheered them on along the way.”
Thousands of young people registered to take part in the WorldSkills UK competitions, with over 400 making it to the finals.
Finalists from this year’s national finals may be selected to join WorldSkills UK’s international training and development programme and then have the opportunity to join Squad UK and, subsequently, Team UK at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.
Skills minister Jacqui Smith said: “Congratulations to everyone who participated in this year’s magnificent competition. Each of you has showcased the exceptional talent and promise of our future workforce.
“Competitions like WorldSkills UK are so important in nurturing talent, providing a vital platform for young people to develop the skills they need to seize opportunities and achieve growth.”
Ben Blackledge, chief executive of WorldSkills UK, added: “Congratulations to this year’s medal winners.
“Being named the best in your skill is a tremendous achievement and reflects the dedication of teachers in our colleges, universities and training providers, who are the bedrock of our skills systems across the UK.
“Our competition-based training programme, underpinned by global insights, plays a vital role in raising standards in teaching and assessment in apprenticeships and technical education.
“Working with our partners across industry and education, we are championing the emerging skills that are critical to drive investment and business growth in the UK.”
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