The National Apprenticeship Service is this week making a final call for talented individuals up and down the country to put their skills to the test by entering the 2012 cycle of WorldSkills UK National Competitions.

Managed by the National Apprenticeship Service, WorldSkills UK National Competitions see the top skilled people in a range of industry sectors, from engineering, construction and creative and cultural arts; battle it out to be crowned the UK’s best.  Open to people who have recently gained qualifications or who are working in over 50 skill areas, the Competitions play a vital role in raising standards, esteem and participation in Apprenticeships and Vocational Training.

Taking part in a competition

If successful at the initial regional stage of the competitions, participants can progress through to the National Finals where they will be able test their mettle against the country's finest talent. For those taking part in this year’s WorldSkills UK National Competitions there is the added honour of being in with the chance to display their talent at WorldSkills UK – The Skills Show in front of an audience of over 100,000.

WorldSkills UK – The Skills Show

Launched in February by Skills Minister John Hayes, WorldSkills UK – The Skills Show will be the UK’s biggest skills event.  As well as hosting a range of National Competition Finals, The Skills Show will be the one stop destination for the opportunity to ‘Have a Go’ and careers guidance, advice on vocational training especially Apprenticeships with a range of employers.

The Skills Show takes place from 15 – 17 November at the NEC Birmingham.  Colleges, Training Providers and employers are being asked to pledge their support for skills and get involved with The Skills Show by showcasing the talent at their organisations, running Have a Go activities in a range of skills and participating in advice and guidance sessions.

Enter your students now

WorldSkills UK National Competitions are a great way for teachers, lecturers and training providers to create a real buzz in the classroom or workshop; and to motivate learners to constantly improve their skills. Once learners see what they are capable of, their confidence grows and they want to achieve more and more.

Furthermore, outstanding competitors from WorldSkills UK National Competitions may also be invited to compete for a place in the team that represents the UK on a global stage at WorldSkills, the international skills competition which takes place every two years.

The National Apprenticeship Service really wants to see more people entering competitions to prove to the whole of the UK just how many talented people we have in this country. So if you think any of your students have what it takes to become the best in their industry, then please encourage them to get involved.

Jaine Bolton, Director, National Apprenticeship Service 

Entries for WorldSkills UK National Competitions close on 15 March 2012.  To access a full list of competitions and to register visit: www.worldskillsuk.org

WorldSkills UK – The Skills Show is a joint initiative by the National Apprenticeship Service and the Skills Funding Agency. For more information visit www.theskillsshow.com