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Bright sparks showcase their welding talents at SkillWeld 2023

All year, students on the Metal Fabricator Level 3 Apprenticeship have been mastering welding techniques and positions to industry standards.  

Recently, their hard work culminated in the day long SkillWeld competition to showcase their talents. 

SkillWeld is part of Worldskills Uk and Engineering Skills Competitions, and we were delighted to welcome industry specialists Clive Slocombe from Code A Weld, and Paul Kendrick from Air Products as guest judges for the event. 

Dan Evans and Steven Jones joined us on the day from Bucher Municipal, the apprentices’ employer, along with their College teacher Daniel Burch. 

The day kicked off with a briefing about the competition and health and safety, then students had a practice session before the competition started. 

The apprentices worked over a four-hour period to complete their pieces and at the end of the competition, Stephen Haynes from WorldSkills UK gave all the entrants a certificate and announced the well-deserving winners: 

1st place - James, 3rd year apprentice 
2nd place - Carl, 4th year apprentice 
3rd place - Louos, 4th year apprentice 

Clive Slocombe commented:  
 
“The competition had excellent facilities and the guys’ attitude towards it was great. The quality of work by the students and the winner was remarkably high.” 

One of the students said:  
 
“It was good - we learnt a lot of new stuff through several types of learning and materials. A good opportunity – thanks to Dan, our lecturer.” 

Another added: 

“It’s good because you earn while you learn and if you’re not into books academically then it’s great because it’s hands on.” 

Lecturer Dan Burch remarked: 

“I’m very proud – they have given a good account of themselves, showcasing their skill set.” 

A big thanks for our judges and generous supporters, listed below: 

• Spa Welding Supplies - donated the 1st place prize, a welding
  head screen worth £250
• Code of Weld – supplied a gift bag for each competitor 
• Air products
• Rambaldini Welding Services 
• ​​​​​​​Lincoln Electric  
• The Welding Institute  
• ​​​​​​​EngEpa 

Want to discover more about the wide range of apprenticeships on offer? Check them out here.