Government Skills
21 September 2009
Twenty-six young Britons have shown their talents at the skills equivalent of the Olympics – The WorldSkills Competition in Calgary, Canada.
Competitors complete for gold, silver and bronze medals and strive to excel in world-class standards in 45 skills categories, ranging from painting and decorating, to web design and aircraft maintenance.
The UK won three gold and six bronze medals. In addition, the UK was also awarded 14 Medallions for Excellence, given to competitors who achieved at least 500 points, deemed to be world-class standards.
One of the bronze medallists was Stewart Wright from Northampton, who is based at RAF Wittering an serves with the Royal Navy. Stewart completed an Advanced Modern Apprenticeship in Aircraft Maintenance including NVQ3 and is currently studying for a Foundation Degree in Aeronautical Engineering.
Stewart, who has completed two operational tours of Afghanistan and served at sea aboard HMS Illustrious, was chosen for the UK team following a tough three-day selection process where he completed six tasks including carrying out an aircraft inspection.
Skills Minister, Kevin Brennan said:
“These inspiring young people have demonstrated to the rest of the world just how able and highly skilled the UK is.
“The world-class skills this team have demonstrated are vital to the future of our economy in key industries…It's more important than ever that we continue to support and invest in the skills of our workforce, helping individuals get into and stay on at work.”
