[T]wo apprentices from Lakes College recently attended the World Skills National Finals. World Skills UK is “all about improving the prestige of apprenticeships and technical education, to inspire more young people to consider these as career routes and get off to a better start in work and life. Thousands of people are engaged across the UK in skills competitions where they improve their technical and employability skills to the highest possible national standard”.
Vincent O’Rouke (top bricklayer) made it to the finals and did the college proud against some really tough competition. Vincent stated: “There was a lot of pressure in the challenging conditions, but I enjoyed it and I am very grateful to have been selected as one of the top eight in the country.”
Welder Conor Alexander continued Lakes’ astonishing recent performance by winning the Gold Medal, which adds to his two silvers. Conor stated “its always hard competing in a National competition, with the added pressure of competing twice previously. As this is my last year here I wanted to come away with the gold medal and to achieve it was fantastic. This wouldn’t have been possible without the support and training I received from Lakes College and Hertel”.
Conor’s tutor Clive Bell commented: “Conor has worked very hard over the last three years, showing great commitment and passion throughout his work. I am extremely proud of his achievements”. Clive also praised World Skills UK stating that “they are a fantastic platform for young welders to showcase their skills.”
Chris Nattress (Lakes College Principal), said: “To compete, and sometimes win, at this level takes a huge amount of time, dedication, talent and commitment, and hours of support from our skilled staff. I’m very proud of Vincent and Connor and everyone involved in supporting them.”
