Five Oldham College students have earned places in the national finals of WorldSkills UK 2026.

WorldSkills UK is an independent charity that works to raise standards in technical education and apprenticeships across the UK. Its annual skills competition asks young people to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world scenarios and challenges. A total of 400 finalists will compete in more than 40 different competitions at the 2026 national finals next month, in areas including Landscaping, Aircraft Maintenance, Digital Media Production and Culinary Arts.

Three of the college's finalists are on the Women's Hairdressing Level 2 course and will compete in Foundation Skills: Hairdressing. Alexia said: "Finding out that I had reached the national final was such a proud moment. I'm excited to represent Oldham College."

Alicia said the competition had challenged her "to work outside of my comfort zone, be more creative and improve the standard of my work". Bella said taking part had given her the chance to develop her hairdressing skills, try new ideas and learn how to work calmly under pressure, and had shown her what she can achieve when she challenges herself.

Level 3 Esports learner Mason is a finalist in the Esports Enterprise & Entrepreneurship Challenge demonstration. It is a brand-new competition being piloted for 2026, which the college said makes him one of the first learners to be tested in this way.

He said: "Starting my journey in WorldSkills at first seemed daunting, but following the initial development of my idea, I was filled with confidence that I would succeed. Reaching the finals is a major accomplishment that fills me with pride." He added that even if he does not win gold, the competition has reinforced his self-confidence and will be a valuable steppingstone for the future.

Connor, who studies Level 2 Digital Technologies, is a Foundation Skills: Digital finalist. He said: "I never would've imagined being able to gain the confidence to attend something like this, and I am very thankful to everyone who has helped support me in my learning, communication and confidence."

The national finals take place in South Wales on 18th and 19th November this year.