Five exceptional Leeds College of Building students have been selected for the national finals of this year’s WorldSkills UK competition, often dubbed the ‘skills Olympics’ for some of the most in-demand construction trades.
Regional SkillBuild qualifiers delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) took place this summer and showcased some of the most talented learners and apprentices across the UK. The selected finalists are now in training as they prepare to compete for Gold, Silver and Bronze in their chosen skill.
Taking place at Edinburgh College from 14 – 17 November, WorldSkills UK is the country’s largest skills competition event, run in partnership with leading industry brands. This year, a total of 85 finalists will progress to the WorldSkills UK final in Scotland.
The Leeds College of Building finalists representing the Yorkshire & Humberside region are:
Zara Dupont, Plastering and Drywall Systems
Aeron Murray, Roofing: Slating and Tiling
Kyron Sharlotte, Roofing: Slating and Tiling
Joshua Easton, Roofing: Slating and Tiling
Aaron Brady, Wall and Floor Tiling
Alongside the WorldSkills UK competitions, visitors to the event will enjoy inspirational careers advisory events which will highlight the wide variety of apprenticeships, T Levels, and technical education on offer. This combination of workshops, masterclasses, and interactive sessions will allow visitors to talk directly to employers and industry experts.
An online broadcast will ensure those who cannot attend can still be involved, featuring action from the finals, advice from careers advisors, and interviews with previous winners. Former apprentice and TV journalist Steph McGovern will then hand out medals from her Packed Lunch studio on Friday 25 November.
Mark Sims, Leeds College of Building’s competition coordinator and lecturer, said:
“We’re delighted to see so many of our students make it through to the national finals. It’s a real testament to the work that they have been doing, and we foresee a bright future ahead for them. The College has a great track record at the competition, so we’re hopeful we can show the UK what we’re capable of achieving again! Now the hard work begins in getting these students ready for the finals.”
WorldSkills UK Deputy CEO Ben Blackledge said:
“I want to offer my congratulations to everyone who registered for our competitions this year, especially those who are now going on to compete in November’s finals."
“We are really excited to be taking the show on the road again this year. We hope seeing the finals in person or catching up with our online content will inspire more young people to develop their skills and have a go at one of our competitions next year."
“Our competitions and competition-based development programmes equip apprentices and students with the lifelong, world-class skills that will help increase UK productivity and competitiveness.”
Eligible finalists who excel in the national finals may then be invited to join the WorldSkills UK training and development programme to represent the UK in the international skills competition in France in 2024.
