The countdown is on: the WorldSkills UK National Finals 2025 take place next week from 25th-28th November!
We are incredibly proud of the learners and apprentices shortlisted to represent the College at this year’s finals.
WorldSkills UK is a nationwide skills competition, using international best practice to raise standards in apprenticeships and technical education.
Each year, learners from across the country compete in subject-specific competitions based on real-world, work-based challenges. Finalists also have the opportunity to represent the UK at WorldSkills competitions across the globe!
Oldham College’s finalists are Ellie (Foundation Skills: Hairdressing), Archie (Electrical Installation) and Jake (IT Support Technician).
Ellie, Archie and Jake have each earned their place in these finals by participating in qualifier heats, showcasing excellent standards at every stage of the competition so far.
They will travel to South Wales for the finals this autumn, which take place at education providers across the region.
Archie (pictured), Electrical Installation finalist, said:
“This has been a great experience so far. Taking part in competitions like WorldSkills UK is futureproofing – I’m building strong foundations for my career.
“I’ve been massively supported by my tutor Dave, my employer, my friends and family – I’ve been given the best chances to succeed.
“I’m excited and feeling confident going into the finals!”
Ellie (pictured), Foundation Skills: Hairdressing, said:
“Competing in WorldSkills has been a really good experience! The skills I’m learning, and people I’m meeting, have given me a good insight into my future career.
“I’m also developing skills like organisation and dealing with time pressure.”
Simon Jordan, Principal and Chief Executive at Oldham College said:
“We’re delighted to have four of our learners shortlisted as national finalists at this year’s WorldSkills UK competition.
“Skills competitions like WorldSkills UK help learners to raise their aspirations, embedding world-class standards in both training and assessments.
“Sumaya, Ellie, Archie and Jake have done an outstanding job to get this far, applying the work-ready skills they have developed at college to reach the finals of this prestigious competition.
“Congratulations to our finalists – we will be supporting them all the way!”
Many Oldham College learners have reached the WorldSkills UK national finals, with some going further to become medallists. Since 2022, the college has won five medals, including two gold, one silver and two bronze.
In 2023 and 2024, Oldham College was also the host venue of 13 competitions when the national finals took place at colleges across Greater Manchester.
We’re wishing all our finalists the best of luck!
