We’re calling all students and apprentices to put their skills to the test and sign up to our national competitions which launch on Monday 26 February.
Based on international standards, the competitions, in sectors key to economic growth, ensure more young people are emerging from their training highly skilled, confident and ready for work.
Venues across Greater Manchester will once again host the national finals, which will take place from 18 – 22 November. This is part of our commitment to reach as many young people and employers as possible, by taking its national finals on the road.
This year, the WorldSkills UK national competitions are running in 49 skills ranging from Additive Manufacturing, Industry 4.0 and Industrial Robotics to Cooking, 3D Game Design and Hairdressing.
The WorldSkills UK Foundation Competitions, which support students at entry and level 1, to develop their skills for work and independence, will run in skill areas including Horticulture, IT software and Health and Social Care.
The competitions are a seven-month process, which includes regional heats and intensive training, before the ultimate test of the national finals, where finalists and medallists will be celebrated at Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall.
The WorldSkills UK Learning Lab, a free online resource, hosts a e-learning based careers education and information resources, to support educators and trainers in preparing their students and apprentices for the competitions.
Ben Blackledge, Chief Executive, WorldSkills UK said: “Our competitions are an integral part of the technical education calendar.
“We know that taking part enables a young person to get a head start in their career as they develop the technical and employability skills that employers are looking for. That is why we want to see as many young people as possible registering over the next month to get the most from this opportunity.
“It is fantastic to be returning to Greater Manchester for our national finals. It is clear that across the city region there is a shared passion for technical education and how it can change young people’s lives. We look forward to working with the Mayor and all of the providers in Greater Manchester to put on an unforgettable event that celebrates the very best in skills.”
Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said: “I am delighted that the WorldSkills UK National Finals are returning to our city-region for the second year.
“Here in Greater Manchester we have ambitious plans to champion skills and technical education, and with our Greater Manchester Baccalaureate we will be providing young people with a clear pathway to exciting opportunities in our local economy. I can’t think of a better place to host the country’s biggest skills showcase, and to celebrate the exceptional skills of our talented students and apprentices.”
“Anna Dawe, Chair, GMColleges and Principal Wigan & Leigh College said: “Greater Manchester Colleges are delighted to welcome back WorldSkills UK to the city region. The event showcases the very best of technical skills training and enables our students to learn from others and compete with the very best nationally. Last year’s competition had a huge impact on our students at all levels, raising aspiration and highlighting where their technical training can take them in their future careers.”
Register to take part in the WorldSkills UK National Competitions between 26 February and 28 March 2024.
