National Recognition for Middlesbrough College Students at WorldSkills UK

Middlesbrough College is celebrating the success of three of its students who competed in the National WorldSkills Competition in Swansea, showcasing the very best of technical talent in the UK.

Zac Cessford, 18, from Redcar and an apprentice with British Steel, took gold in Renewable Energy, impressively beating a strong field by 10 points. Zac’s victory comes after completing a series of challenging tasks over two days, including flying a drone over a simulated roof to inspect solar panels, mechanical maintenance, electrical fault finding, vibration monitoring on a Nacelle and installing consumer units with a PV (Solar Panel).

With Zac’s gold medal, he is now in with the chance to compete for a place on the GB team in the WorldSkills International Competition in Japan in 2028, alongside other top UK competitors in the renewables sector.

Zac, currently in the first year of his four-year apprenticeship with British Steel and studying at TTE Middlesbrough College after completing a Level 3 Renewables course, said: “I just entered the competition because it sounded like a great opportunity. I really enjoyed the experience, and it was fantastic to meet other students and industry professionals. I’m proud to have come away with gold and I’m excited about the chance to represent GB in Japan in 2028!”

Also representing Middlesbrough College, George Hennessey, 18, from Eaglescliffe, won silver in Foundation Skills: Digital and Grace Measor, 17, from Hartlepool, was a finalist in Lab Technician, demonstrating the wide range of high-quality skills being developed at the College.

John Cooke, associate director at TTE, commented on Zac’s achievement: “Zac’s dedication and skill are a real testament to the quality of training and support we provide. His success highlights the potential of apprenticeships to develop world-class talent in the renewables sector.”

Chris Vout, Zac’s tutor and electrical maintenance lecturer, added: “Zac approached every task with focus and enthusiasm. Winning gold at a national level is a remarkable achievement and one that he truly deserves.”

WorldSkills UK Competitions promote excellence in over 40 skill areas, helping young people develop technical expertise while providing employers with access to outstanding talent.