Cymoedd Duo through to Skills Finals

Two learners from the Construction Department at Coleg y Cymoedd have been busy competing in the World Skills South Wales Construction Regional competition, hosted by Coleg Ceredigion’s Cardigan campus.

Over a hundred learners from colleges across South Wales gathered to take part in the day’s competitions which were held in Carpentry, Joinery, Brickwork, Painting and Decorating, Plumbing and Electrical work.

Cymoedd learners Lewis Blakely, 17 from Caerphilly and Jarrad Hinett 16 from Blackwood both represented the Construction department. This was the first time that both learners had competed in the Skills competition; where they were given practical tasks to complete in a set timeframe.

The two Cymoedd learners impressed the judges with the quality of their work, ensuring accuracy in measurements, alignment and angles plus the ability to complete the soldering to the set criteria for the competition. 

Lewis who is currently studying on the Level 2 Diploma in Plumbing and Heating (Apprentice) said” I was quite nervous when we first arrived at the competition but once we had started the tasks, I was able to concentrate on the skills I’ve learnt during my course and was happy with the finished result. It was great to meet learners from other colleges, I’ve certainly benefitted from the experience and I was really pleased to achieve 2^nd position”.

Plumbing tutor Lee Perry commented, “It was pleasing to see Lewis secure 2^nd position and Jarrad, studying on the Level 1 Diploma in Plumbing Studies, also securing a place in the finals. I was so proud of both learners they were a credit to the college and they should be very proud of their achievements, the scoring was so close with only a few marks separating all competitors. 

Entering competitions such as this gives the learners the opportunity to work to set deadlines, which is important in the trade.  The judges’ comments on the exceptionally high standards demonstrated by the learners bodes well for the future of the plumbing and heating industry”.

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