Grŵp Llandrillo Menai learners win medals at WorldSkills UK finals
Coleg Menai student Evan Klimaszewski was among six Grŵp Llandrillo Menai learners who medalled at the event in Manchester
Six Grŵp Llandrillo Menai learners won medals at the WorldSkills UK finals in Manchester.
Coleg Menai student Evan Klimaszewski led the medal charge for Grŵp Llandrillo Menai, winning gold in industrial electronics.
Coleg Menai learner Siôn Elias and former student Peter Jenkins claimed silver in industrial robotics, while Busnes@LlandrilloMenai apprentices Clare Sharples, Carwyn Littlewood and Lauren Harrap-Tyson did the same in the accountancy technician category.
Coleg Llandrillo learner Heather Wynne was ‘Highly Commended’ in the hairdressing competition, while Coleg Menai’s Lucas Jackson (CNC milling) and Iwan Nicklin (industrial electronics) were also competing.
All were selected for the finals after finishing in the top eight from across the UK in regional qualifiers.
Finalists could also be invited to join WorldSkills UK’s international training and development programme, with the opportunity to be selected to represent the UK at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.
Aled Jones-Griffith, Grŵp Llandrillo Menai Chief Executive Officer, said: “We are immensely proud of the achievements of all our learners at the WorldSkills UK finals.
“To have reached the national finals is an achievement in itself, and is testament to their hard work and dedication, as well as the high-quality education they are receiving through Grŵp Llandrillo Menai, and the incredible support from their lecturers.
“For six of our learners to be awarded medals at the national level is exceptional. All our finalists are a credit to Grŵp Llandrillo Menai, and we hope to see some of them representing the UK in Shanghai 2026.”
The WorldSkills UK national finals are the culmination of nine months’ hard work and training for the young people competing. The finals assess the key attributes that employers are looking for in candidates, including practical skills, ability to work under pressure, critical thinking and communication skills.
UK Skills Minister Jacqui Smith, who attended the finals, said: “Congratulations to everyone who participated in this year’s magnificent competition. Each of you has showcased the exceptional talent and promise of our future workforce.
“Competitions like WorldSkills UK are so important in nurturing talent, providing a vital platform for young people to develop the skills they need to seize opportunities and achieve growth.
“Huge thank you to the judges, mentors, and organisers whose hard work and dedication make these events possible. Your efforts are helping to inspire and empower the next generation to succeed.”
Ben Blackledge, WorldSkills UK Chief Executive, said: “Congratulations to this year’s medal winners. Being named the best in your skill is a tremendous achievement and reflects the dedication of teachers in our colleges, universities and training providers, who are the bedrock of our skills systems across the UK.
“Our competition-based training programme, underpinned by global insights, plays a vital role in raising standards in teaching and assessment in apprenticeships and technical education.
“Working with our partners across industry and education, we are championing the emerging skills that are critical to drive investment and business growth in the UK.”
To see the full list of winners from the WorldSkills UK finals 2024, click here