Learning changes lives
WorldSkills organises the World Championships of vocational and technical skills and celebrates the fact that learning can change lives.
This amazing event is held every two years in different parts of the world. The latest one – the 45th – took place in Kazan, Russia, where 1354 young professionals from 63 countries and regions competed, resulting in Team UK bringing home four fantastic medals.
The WorldSkills organisation inspires young people to develop a passion for skills and pursue excellence through competitions and promotions. Specialist trainers share their knowledge by teaching to global standards, using benchmarking systems and enhancing industry engagement.
One such training manager and mentor is Mike Swan from Dundee and Angus College who saw one of his students, Callum Bonner of Forth Valley College, gain an impressive Medallion for Excellence in painting and decorating.
Mike says:
“I am so proud of Callum’s achievement. This event has grown to Olympic proportions and to be successful against the world’s best is quite something. The Russians put on an incredible show from start to finish and representing the UK in Kazan and achieving a Medallion of Excellence after many years of training takes my breath away every time I think about it. Callum also won the speed painting module element of the competition and is now officially the fastest painter in the world!”
The fastest painter in the world is delighted too. Callum says:
“To compete at this level has been an incredible experience and to know I am world standard is amazing. I’d like to thank Mike for preparing and training me. His attention to detail is second to none and without him I wouldn’t have done it. I have made new friends for life from many other countries and cultures and will continue to be involved with the organisation as a WorldSkills Champion.”