Deeside Coleg Cambria students showcase skills in ‘Trade Olympics’

Students at two Coleg Campus sites recently showcased their skills in a ‘Trade Olympics’.

The event, which was held at the college’s Bersham Road and Deeside sites, offers the chance to throw open the workshop doors and highlight the work of talented trades and services students.

Launched successfully as a student-led initiative in Construction and Engineering last year, this year’s trade show and competitions doubled in size.

16 trade competitions were held as important pressure tests and steps towards selection for Welsh Skills competitions and WorldSkills UK competitions in 2017. The trades included Computer Aided Design, Welding & Fabrication, Electrical Installation, Plumbing, Automotive Engineering, Plastering, joinery, Brick Laying, Engineering, Carpentry and Painting & Decorating.

Approximately 200 students battled it out on timed tasks to demonstrate their skills. Employers, staff and students were able to observe the competitions at close range and network at an employability event.

In all, over 50 employers, trade associations and suppliers attended, generously donating prizes for the 16 trade competitions as well as for raffles in aid of the college’s chosen Charity of Wales Air Ambulance.

Nick Povey, Deputy Director of Curriculum Construction (Bersham Road) said: “Yet again the Trade Olympics proved to be a fantastic day for all involved. I would like to thank all of the staff for their help in organising it and the employers and companies involved for their input and kind donations, without them the day would not have been the success it was.”

Assistant Director for Engineering and Motor Vehicle, Carl Black added: “It was a great day with brilliant support from all the employers. The learners really enjoyed the competitions and produced some excellent work.”

“A great day for our learners who competed in the skills competitions hopefully these learners will go onto further success in future competitions.” added Ian Hogg Deputy Director of Curriculum Construction (Deeside).

“A big thank you to all the organisations, manufacturers, suppliers and employers who supported the day and made kind donations for prizes and the charity raffle.

Former student Shannen Finnerty who came up with the concept of a Trade Olympics at the college added: “It was great to come back this year to be part of the Trade Olympics again, it’s gotten bigger and better and hopefully it will continue in the same fashion!”