Health and Social Care learners celebrate success at World Skills Final!

The World Skills UK competition is designed by industry experts, and assesses an individual’s knowledge, practical skills, and employability attributes. This years’ competition saw 500 learners across 63 skills come together at six different colleges to compete for gold in the final.

Boston College was immensely proud to have been represented by two Health and Social Care Learners, Abigail Clarkson and Kimberley Jones, who secured their places in this years’ final by scoring highly in the National Qualifiers and went on to compete against six others earlier this month. After a tough 2 days of competition, Abigail and Kim both received rewards for their efforts with Kimberley taking the Bronze place, and Abigail being highly commended.

During the two-day final, Abigail and Kim were given six scenarios which were facilitated by actors allowing the learners to use their practical skills and knowledge to react to each situation and provide professional care as if it was real-life. They were then marked on how well they dealt with each situation, with judges then selecting 1st, 2nd and 3rd place.

The two learners, who are both currently in the second year of the Level 3 Health and Social Care Extended Diploma, were chosen by their tutor to enter the competition. Speaking on the competition and the experience it has provided, Abigail said, “World Skills has given me a huge confidence boost, experiencing intense competition has made me notice my strengths and aim high and achieve my goals. World Skills gave me the opportunity to meet new people and challenge myself against the best of the best, but also have a good time and make amazing new friends.”

Kimberley also spoke about the competition, “World skills is such an amazing opportunity! Getting through every stage and then to the final was an amazing achievement but then getting 3rd place and winning a medal is a massive accomplishment. Everyone was so welcoming, and I met so many amazing people and found new friends. Throughout the whole process, I have received lots of support from my lecturers and everyone around me and have learnt so many new skills.”

Rachel Lamb, Senior Learning Lead for Health and Social Care at Boston College, attended the event alongside the learners and spoke about how the competition helps the learners “The learners have done so well in the competition. World Skills allows them to showcase the skills, knowledge and behaviours they have learnt whilst completing their course. We are so proud of them.”

If Abigail and Kim’s achievements have inspired you to explore a career in Health and Social Care, visit the Health and Social Care page to find out more about courses at Boston College.