The finalists will compete in 51 skills, ranging from digital construction, health and social care and additive manufacturing to metal fabrication and cyber security.
The national finals will take place from 14 – 17 November at colleges, independent training providers and universities across Greater Manchester, including:
- Manchester College
- Salford University
- University of Manchester
- Rochdale Training
- Oldham College
- Trafford College
- Tameside College
- Wigan and Leigh College
The Industrial Robotics Competition, which is run in partnership with Fanuc will take place between 14 – 16 November at Fanuc’s headquarters in Coventry as part of its Open House Event.
The medallists will be announced at a glittering awards ceremony on Friday 17 November at the Bridgewater Hall.
Minister for Skills, Apprenticeships and Higher Education Robert Halfon said:
“Congratulations and best of luck to all of the apprentices and students competing in the national finals this year and showcasing their exceptional talents in a diverse range of skill disciplines, from manufacturing and engineering to health and social care.
“WorldSkills UK not only provides an unparalleled opportunity to hone your skills and climb the ladder of opportunity towards a better and brighter future, but it is also a chance to celebrate and champion vocational courses and the further education sector.”
WorldSkills UK competition-based training programmes are designed by industry experts and develop participants’ technical and employability skills, including building resilience, self-confidence and communications skills. OFSTED has also recognised the value of these programmes in their education inspection framework.
The finalists from this year’s National Finals could be invited to join the WorldSkills UK International Development Programme for the WorldSkills Competition in 2026.
Ben Blackledge, Chief Executive, WorldSkills UK said:
“I offer my congratulations to all of the National Finalists. We know our competition-based training programmes deliver real value and benefits to the young person taking part, but the programmes also provide opportunity for the development of their educators and trainers in delivering training that meets the latest industry standards.
“The young people that take part in our national programme are a true inspiration and demonstrate the skills we have in the UK. As well as giving them the chance to shine we will be sharing their career journeys and success stories, so we can inspire more young people, from all backgrounds, to see that an apprenticeship or technical education is a first-class route to success in work and life.”
WorldSkills UK will be supporting the participants in preparing for the national finals by hosting skill specific training days and also through online resources accessible for free on our Learning Lab.
We wish all of the finalists the best of luck in the National Finals!
