Last year was an action-packed time at Oldham College – notably for our involvement in WorldSkills UK 2023.
As well as co-hosting the national finals in November, we were also represented by eight fantastic national finalists – and one eventual medallist.
Jess Criswell, Vice Principal for Curriculum, Teaching and Learning, said: “In 2023 we had more learners reach the national finals of WorldSkills UK than ever before.”
“That included one learner who reached the Hairdressing final which meant they were in the top eight out of 492 registrants nationally.”
The WorldSkills UK national finals took place at colleges, independent training providers and universities across Greater Manchester from 13-17 November 2023, culminating in an awards ceremony at The Bridgewater Hall.
For the first time ever, Oldham College staged four national finals – in Plumbing, Electrical Installation, Landscaping and Foundation Skills: Horticulture.
This inspiring week saw contestants from across the UK putting their skills to the test in our Construction Centre and Polytunnels.
We also hosted a significant range oflocal employers, schools and colleges on site to see these competitions in action and learn more about the exciting opportunities WorldSkills UK offers.
In December, our national finalists – including Lily Holland, who won the Bronze medal for Foundation Skills: Health and Social Care – were invited to a special celebration event.
This event was also attended by their tutors and each finalist received a trophy and prize – and spoke glowingly about their experiences of competing in WorldSkills UK.
We’re now looking towards this year’s competitions, and hope that 2024 will be our biggest and best year yet.
The action starts this week at Oldham College, where learners across all subject areas are putting their knowledge to the test in our Skills Week skills competitions. Click here to read more about our National Apprenticeship Week and Skills Week 2024 plans.
