Oldham College’s WorldSkills UK 2026 national finalists

Oldham College has five finalists in the WorldSkills UK 2026 national finals.

WorldSkills UK is an independent charity which aims to elevate standards in technical education and apprenticeships across the UK.

Each year WorldSkills UK holds a nationwide skills competition, inviting young people to put their knowledge and skills to the test in real-world scenarios and challenges. 

A total of 400 finalists will compete in more than 40 different competitions at the 2026 national finals next month. Technical skills, creativity and problem-solving will be tested in competitions such as Landscaping, Aircraft Maintenance, Digital Media Production, Culinary Arts and many more. 

We’re delighted to share that Oldham College has five national finalists, who have earned their place by showcasing an excellent standard of technical skill in the qualifying rounds at college and regional level. 

Three of our learners will compete in the Foundation Skills: Hairdressing competition – Alexia, Alicia and Bella, who are all on the Women’s Hairdressing Level 2 course.

Alexia says: “Taking part in WorldSkills has been an amazing experience and has really helped me grow in confidence. Finding out that I had reached the national final was such a proud moment. I’m excited to represent Oldham College.”

“The competition has challenged me to work outside of my comfort zone, be more creative and improve the standard of my work,” says Alicia, while Bella says that “taking part has given me the opportunity to develop my hairdressing skills, try new ideas and learn how to work calmly under pressure. I’ve grown in confidence throughout the competition and it has shown me what I can achieve when I challenge myself.”

Level 3 Esports learner Mason is a finalist in the Esports Enterprise & Entrepreneurship Challenge demonstration. This is a brand-new competition being piloted for 2026, meaning Mason is one of the first-ever learners to put his skills to the test in this exciting new way.

He says: “Starting my journey in WorldSkills at first seemed daunting, but following the initial development of my idea, I was filled with confidence that I would succeed. Reaching the finals is a major accomplishment that fills me with pride. Even if I don’t achieve gold, I know this competition has reinforced my self-confidence and will prove to be a valuable steppingstone for my future journey.” 

Finally Connor, who studies Level 2 Digital Technologies, is a Foundation Skills: Digital finalist.

He says: “I really appreciated the opportunity to attend the WorldSkills competition. I never would’ve imagined being able to gain the confidence to attend something like this, and I am very thankful to everyone who has helped support me in my learning, communication and confidence.” 

We look forward to supporting these learners as they take part in the national finals, which take place in South Wales on the 18th-19th of November this year. 

Oldham College learners enjoy opportunities to develop their skills through exciting experiences such as competing in WorldSkills UK. Could this be you next? Browse courses and apply for 2027.