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Congratulations to silver medal winner Melissa and finalist Iustin, who have both done Nescot proud at the WorldSkills UK National Finals. They competed in the Culinary Arts category of the competition which was held in Greater Manchester last week, 19-22 November. Along with the UK’s top apprentices and learners, their achievements were celebrated by WorldSkills UK at a glittering ceremony at Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall on Friday 22 November.

Julie Kapsalis, Principal and CEO at Nescot said, “This is a wonderful achievement for Catering and Hospitality at Nescot in their first year of entering the WorldSkills UK competition. Congratulations to Melissa for winning silver and well done to Iustin. We are so incredibly proud of both of them. Thank you to our amazing Professional Cookery and Catering team for everything they do to support all of our learners.”

Both Melissa and Iustin had two days of rigorous testing where they had to showcase their culinary skills and expertise, cooking a variety of dishes to set specifications and timescales.

Karin Freestone, Chef Lecturer at Nescot said, “I am really proud of both Melissa’s and Iustin’s achievements throughout this competition, from the regional qualifiers through to the national finals. They are both very talented and it’s been an honour and privilege working with them these past few months.

“Taking part in WorldSkills UK has been an excellent first experience for Catering and Hospitality at Nescot. Competing in the national finals and winning a silver medal is a testament to our team’s exceptional training, guidance and support for all our learners.”

Speaking about their WorldSkills UK journey, Melissa, who completed her Level 3 Advanced Professional Cookery Diploma at Nescot expressed, “Our tutors go the extra mile to ensure we are supported and guided throughout our journey. The WorldSkills UK competition has been a thrilling experience that requires dedication and commitment. It is a fantastic opportunity to challenge yourself. More than a competition, it’s an amazing learning opportunity.”

Iustin, who’s doing his Level 3 Advanced Professional Cookery Diploma at Nescot added, “Taking part in the WorldSkills UK competition has challenged me and enabled me to showcase my skills and potential. The skills and training I’ve received at Nescot gave me the confidence to take part, the college and tutors have been very supportive.”

Students from Nescot have participated in the finals of WorldSkills UK for the third year running, with Nescot’s Creative Media students wining Gold in 2023 and Bronze in 2022.

Young people from across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland assembled in Greater Manchester to compete in over 40 different skills to be named the ‘best in the UK’. They represented industries ranging from digital, advanced manufacturing and engineering through to creative, professional services and hospitality. The WorldSkills UK national finals are a culmination of nine months of hard work and training for the young people who competed. The finals assess the key attributes that employers are looking for in candidates including practical skills, ability to work under pressure, critical thinking and communication skills. For information on the National Finals visit the WorldSkills UK website.

For information on our Catering and Hospitality courses, visit our website here.