New College Lanarkshire has achieved remarkable success at the Worldskills UK competition, topping the medal haul among more than 400 apprentices and students who competed in over 40 events. The prestigious competition, held in Manchester, tested technical abilities across various fields such as hairdressing and cyber security. When the winners were announced at Bridgewater Hall, New College Lanarkshire emerged as the clear champion.
One standout success story was NCL student Luke Clayton, who secured the gold medal in the mechanical engineering: CAD event. Professor Christopher Moore, the principal and CEO of NCL, commended the hard work and dedication of the students and staff in achieving first place at WorldSkills UK. He highlighted the talent at New College Lanarkshire and the unwavering commitment of lecturers to the growth and improvement of their students.
Some of the winners from the competition will now have the opportunity to represent the UK in the global edition known as the “skills olympics.” Skills minister Jacqui Smith praised all the participants for showcasing exceptional talent and potential for the future workforce. The competition serves as a vital platform for young people to develop essential skills to seize opportunities and achieve growth.
Finalists from this year’s national finals may be selected to join WorldSkills UK’s international training and development programme, leading to potential participation in Squad UK and Team UK at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026. Ben Blackledge, the chief executive of WorldSkills UK, applauded this year’s medal winners for their tremendous achievement, attributing their success to the dedication of educators in colleges, universities, and training providers across the UK.
Competitions like WorldSkills UK play a crucial role in nurturing talent and raising standards in apprenticeships and technical education. By collaborating with industry and education partners, WorldSkills UK aims to champion emerging skills essential for driving investment and business growth in the UK.
In summary, New College Lanarkshire’s outstanding performance at Worldskills UK showcases the institution’s commitment to excellence in technical education. The success of students like Luke Clayton highlights the dedication of both learners and educators in fostering a culture of skill development and achievement. The competition not only recognises individual talents but also underscores the importance of continuous learning and innovation in today’s workforce landscape.