Scott flies the flag for country in skills comp
A Rutherglen computing student is set to compete in the prestigious WorldSkills UK finals.
Scott Hammerton will star in the IT Support Technician category as he flies the flag for Scotland and New College Lanarkshire this month.
The 28-year-old is currently studying HND Computing: Networking and Cyber Security at the college’s Motherwell Campus.
As one of only 24 finalists in the contest, Scott is looking forward to the occasion and reckons the experience will enhance his job prospects when he finishes education.
Scott said: “I’m excited to be picked as a WorldSkills UK finalist. The whole experience has been really enjoyable so far and has helped me gain confidence in my own abilities.
“I wasn’t sure if I wanted to take part at the start, but now I’m grateful for the opportunity. Our college and tutors have been great at supporting us through WorldSkills.
“Through being involved in WorldSkills, I hope to hone the skills I’ve learnt through college.
“I think taking part in WorldSkills will improve my chances of employment once I leave education.”
New College Lanarkshire is proud to have as many as 24 finalists in contention for the annual skills competition which involves students and apprentices from across the UK vying for medals in their chosen trade discipline.
This year, unlike any previous year, the finals will be staged at 23 venues in Scotland, England, Ireland and Wales, with New College Lanarkshire’s Motherwell Campus being one of the chosen venues.
NCL is set to host seven of WorldSkills UK’s 64 disciplines at its Motherwell Campus on November 17 and 18, showcasing many of the digital skills taught at the college.
Most finalists representing the college will compete at its Motherwell campus, with two students travelling to compete in commercial make-up at Coleg Cambria in Wales, and in the electronic security systems competition at the Skills for Security Offices in Cheshire.
New College Lanarkshire has claimed the title of ‘Best in the UK’ at WorldSkills UK’s national finals in 2013, 2014 and 2019, in addition to finishing in the top three places in 2015, 2017 and 2018.
There were no WorldSkills UK regional qualifiers or finals held in 2020 due to the pandemic.
The winners of all devolved finals will be unveiled at a ceremony hosted by TV presenter Steph McGovern from her Packed Lunch studio on Friday, November 26.