Overall, the results from the world’s biggest skills competition from 2nd-7th July put the UK fifth in the worldwide medals table (ahead of France, Germany and China) with five gold medals, two silver medals and six bronze medals – the country’s best ever result in the 62 year history of WorldSkills.
SummitSkills, the sector skills council for building services engineering is particularly proud of three members of the UK team who are past competitors in the Skill M&E competitions, which it runs on behalf of the sector.
Matthew Crane, who achieved a bronze medal in Leipzig, was winner of the SkillElectric competition in 2010. Stephen Burge, who secured a Medallion for Excellence recognising his world class skills in refrigeration and air conditioning, was a SkillFridge finalist in 2011. Ashley Bainbridge, whose skills won him a Medallion for Excellence in the Plumbing and Heating competition in Leipzig, was a high scoring competitor in the 2011 SkillPlumb competition.
Keith Marshall OBE, chief executive of SummitSkills, said, ‘Our Skill M&E competitions identify the most talented young people so we are always pleased to see them go on to further success. Well done to Matthew, Stephen and Ashley, whose dedication is an example for young people across the UK to follow. It’s important that our sector continues to identify and celebrate excellence, to continue driving up standards and demonstrate the benefits of the right training.’
The Joint Industry Board (JIB), a sponsor of SkillElectric, added its congratulations to Matthew Crane on his bronze medal win. ‘We’re delighted that the UK’s electrical expertise is being recognised globally,’ said Steve Brawley, JIB chief executive. ‘Matthew’s excellent ranking is testament to his professionalism and dedication to the task in such a high pressured environment. I’d also like to thank David Thomas, from the ECA, who coached Matthew throughout the competition.’
Members of Team UK for Leipzig were chosen after competing in a four day selection process by the National Apprenticeship Service, which manages the UK’s entry into the WorldSkills competition.
