Training for an international competition takes hard work, determination and a huge amount of commitment. Dior, an apprentice Painter and Decorator with Lindum Group, knows just how tough it can be, preparing to compete against the world’s best. She has spent the last two years in training for WorldSkills Lyon 2024, at the same time as undertaking her apprenticeship.
“It is tough, but my favourite part is learning new techniques, including from my training placements abroad, and sharing them with the team at Lindum. Its brilliant to see us incorporating new ways of working that deliver great results on our projects and I’m proud that I play a part in that” explains Dior.
One training trip that is memorable for Dior is her recent trip to China where she took part in a competition and won the bronze medal. She has been trained and mentored by WorldSkills UK Training Manager Mike Swan, who is a lecturer at Dundee and Angus College. She is determined to carry on her winning ways at WorldSkills Lyon 2024.
Dior left school during Covid and wasn’t sure what her next steps should be. Proactively, she googled courses at her local college, Lincoln College, and discovered the painting and decorating course. Dior says:
“The course sounded interesting, and I had always liked creative subjects at school. I knew I wanted to do something practical, so I signed up and haven’t looked back.”
Dior’s tutor spotted her potential and helped her secure an apprenticeship with Lindum Group and also put her forward for the WorldSkills UK Competitions, where she excelled. Taking part in skills competitions has enabled her to travel extensively throughout the UK and internationally. Dior says:
“I’ve always wanted to travel and see the world, and through competing with WorldSkills UK I have seen that I can do that and practise my trade in other countries as well.”
As well as giving a world-class performance at WorldSkills Lyon, Dior is determined to fly the flag for women working in construction. Dior explains:
“Its great to see more and more women taking part in skills competitions in painting and decorating, but I want to show all young women that they can excel in this area of construction. The Lindum Group has been so supportive of my apprenticeship, and I want all young people to have the opportunities I have had.”
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