Stamford College Plumbing Apprentice reaches National Competition Qualifiers

Stamford College apprentice Taylor Ackroyd has reached the Qualifiers of the WorldSkills UK Plumbing Competition, a national event that showcases the best young talent in vocational skills across the country. The competition brings together students from colleges throughout the UK, each competing for a place in the National Finals, set to take place later this year.

Taylor is currently undertaking a Level 3 Plumbing Apprenticeship with local business Complete Plumbing and Heating, gaining hands-on experience while continuing to develop his technical skills through Stamford College. His achievement highlights both his individual dedication and the strong support provided by the College’s apprenticeship programme.

Speaking about the news, Taylor said, “Being told I reached the Qualifiers was such a good feeling—I really didn’t expect it!” He continued: “College has been great; they’ve given me the opportunities to compete in competitions like this and helped me develop skills I wouldn’t necessarily get to work on during site-based training.”

Brendan Cocks, Lecturer in Plumbing at Stamford College said, “ I am absolutely thrilled and incredibly proud of Taylor for reaching the WorldSkills UK Qualifiers. This is not just a fantastic achievement, but a true testament to Taylor’s exceptional skill, unwavering dedication, and hard work in plumbing. It’s also a tremendous honour.” Brendan added, “It’s also a tremendous honour and a brilliant opportunity for Stamford College to be prominently represented on such a prestigious national stage at the WorldSkills UK event. Opportunities like this are invaluable, as they vividly highlight the calibre of talent and the high standards of practical skills we are dedicated to developing right here at Stamford College.”

Taylor is now preparing to compete in the Qualifier event this Friday, with hopes of securing a spot in the National Finals. “Choosing to do an apprenticeship is great,” he added. “Getting into a trade is really good if you work hard—it’s a great career path.”

Everyone at Stamford College wishes Taylor the very best of luck as he takes on the next stage of this exciting journey.