EIGHT exceptional talents from Coleg Cambria and its esteemed industry partners are poised to make their mark at the highly anticipated WorldSkills UK National Finals, an event often dubbed the ‘Skills Olympics’. This year, the prestigious competition arrives on Welsh soil for the very first time, promising a thrilling showcase of vocational excellence and a significant milestone for technical education across the nation.
From November 26-28, competitive action will unfold across five diverse venues throughout Wales, transforming the country into a vibrant hub of skill demonstration and innovation. This unprecedented hosting opportunity underscores Wales’s growing commitment to fostering top-tier practical abilities and provides an unparalleled platform for its rising stars.
Representing Coleg Cambria’s key campuses in Wrexham, Deeside, Llysfasi, and Northop, an elite contingent of students and apprentices will step onto the national stage. These dedicated individuals, chosen through rigorous selection processes, are set to challenge the best emerging professionals from across the United Kingdom, embodying the pinnacle of vocational training.
Robert Jones, Coleg Cambria’s Skills Competition Lead, emphasized the profound significance of this achievement. He stated, “Being selected for WorldSkills UK is a real mark of excellence, and our team has earned their place among the nation’s best through dedication and hard work.” His remarks highlight the intense preparation and unwavering commitment required to reach such a distinguished level in these competitions.
Jones further elaborated on the broader impact of the event, explaining that “this isn’t just a competition – it’s a chance for these learners to raise the bar, test themselves on a national stage, and make Wales proud.” The competitive environment serves as an invaluable crucible, pushing participants to refine their abilities and demonstrate their readiness for industry challenges.
The finals will bring together an impressive assembly of 417 competitors from across the UK, who will vie for top honors in 47 distinct categories, collectively celebrating the remarkable breadth and depth of technical and vocational education. This grand scale illustrates the widespread recognition of skills-based learning as a cornerstone for future economic prosperity.
Wales itself boasts a strong presence, with 120 finalists having successfully secured their berths after excelling in demanding qualifiers, showcasing the nation’s robust talent pipeline. The decision for Wales to host this high-profile event follows a confirmed strategic partnership between the Welsh Government, Inspiring Skills Excellence, and WorldSkills UK, underscoring a collective vision for skills development.
Jack Sargeant, Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership and a former learner at Coleg Cambria, offered a compelling perspective on the competitions. He asserted, “These competitions show the real-world value and applications of apprenticeships and are invaluable in futureproofing our economy.” His endorsement underlines the critical role that vocational training plays in national economic resilience and growth.
Minister Sargeant also expressed his immense pride in Wales hosting the WorldSkills UK 2025 Finals, noting, “We have a beautiful country, and I hope all visitors will take some time to explore it.” This sentiment adds a layer of cultural promotion to the event, inviting participants and attendees to experience the unique charm and hospitality of Wales alongside the competitive spectacle.
