The team may now have the chance to represent the UK in the WorldSkills final in London 2011 – the globe’s largest skills competition. Silver medal was awarded to Coleg Sir Gar, Carmarthen and Pembrokeshire College also won the bronze.
“We are delighted to be this year's host for the WorldSkills environmental and science competition, and with such a successful outcome – this has been a valuable experience for our students” said Richard Bamber Director of Technology at Pembrokeshire College.
The event took place across three days from June 29 – July 1 at Pembrokeshire College, Haverfordwest, West Wales.
Six teams entered from across the UK and wider: Newcastle College, Pembrokeshire College, Coleg Sir Gar, Carmarthen and Radius College, Netherlands.
Lesley Griffiths, Deputy Minister for Skills, Innovation and Science, said: “I congratulate both the gold and bronze winners from Pembrokeshire College on their success. Skills competitions encourage people to reach their full potential and recognise the importance of craftsmanship across all trades and vocations and the valuable part they play in the health of the Welsh economy.”
The theoretical element of the project presented students with information and data about a mythical island facing an energy crisis. Students were tasked with designing a sustainable and affordable energy solution for the next generation.
The students needed to consider many factors to see how the island’s resources can provide sufficient energy, water supplies and food while protecting the environment.
The students also built a solar oven to harness the power of the sun. The task demonstrated problem solving and team work skills, “through this competition young people can explore and find solutions to the need to secure sustainable energy sources as well as gaining a new insight into the science behind all of this,” said Chas Hubbard from Cogent.
“I fully support initiatives that encourage young people to develop their skills for our future industrial and economic development in the UK,” said Baroness Wall who awarded the prizes.
“I was very impressed with the creativity of our future generation of engineers and scientists,” finally commented the Baroness.
Lyn Tomkins from Semta said they were delighted to support the WorldSkills UK, Environmental Science Competition as it showcased the UK’s talents and skills within the environmental industry. The competition was also supported by Natural England.
Notes
What is WorldSkills UK?WorldSkills UK is the name for the UK’s premier set of skills competitions for young people and adults. They run every year in around 70 skills within these five main sectors:
- Built Environment
- Cultural and Creative Arts
- Engineering
- Information Technology and Business Administration
- Professional, Social, Public and Hospitality Services
Outstanding WorldSkills UK national finalists may be considered for potential inclusion in a shortlist for the team that goes on to represent the UK at a WorldSkills competition.
WorldSkills UK is supported by government, the devolved nations and a host of other partners across business, industry and the world of education and training.
WorldSkills UK is an integral part of the legacy being developed by UK Skills as part of its work for WorldSkills London 2011, an international competition being hosted by the UK.
WorldSkills London 2011 will take place in ExCeL, Docklands from the October 5-8, 2011.