Edinburgh College, the host of the WorldSkills UK National Competition Finals 2022 saw the UK’s most advanced students and apprentices in the construction sector.
The SkillBuild event is delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) in conjunction with WorldSkills, the competition recognises globally acclaimed standards with expert judges; providing a platform for highly skilled students to thrive and prove their abilities over set briefs.
The winner will be announced today – Friday the 25th of November at 4 pm by Steph McGovern on Steph’s Packed Lunch Channel 4 programme.
Dior Regan, a second-year Painter and Decorator Apprentice at Lincoln College and Lindum Group secured her place in the world-class competition and will be one of eight in the finals - after winning the regional qualifier earlier this year in Leeds. Dior’s refined technical skills were thoroughly judged based on accuracy, measurements and tidiness.
As a career-focused institution, we teach students technical skills that can be applied to the workplace. Both the College and her employer Lindum, are thoroughly impressed by her dedication and technical ability.
Tim Balcon, CITB Chief Executive, said: “SkillBuild is a fantastic opportunity to sharpen and increase your employability skills, providing a platform for the best of the best in construction technical education.
“To make it through to the National Finals is a fantastic achievement, and all the competitors should be incredibly proud of themselves.”
Sandie Webster, Lincoln College Alumni and CITB National Judge at SkillBuild said: “I have just returned from Edinburgh for this year's national finals, I always get excited to see people from Lincoln College.
“I want to say a massive well done to Dior Regan, making it to the finals - it is not easy for women in the trade.”
Paul Wilcockson, Painting and Decorating Lead at Lincoln College, said: “From an early stage I noticed Dior had potential, I was impressed by the quality of her work, particularly her attention to detail.
“SkillBuild is a wonderful experience that will help Dior grow personally, increasing her confidence and social skills. It will also assist her professionally by developing her technical and employability skills.
“I have believed in her ability throughout her time in college and encouraged her at all times. Dior has reached the Skillbuild national final through her hard work and dedication. I feel she has a real chance of success.”
John Levey, Group Apprentice Manager at the Lindum Group, said: “Lindum initially gave Dior a 1-week work experience - she impressed us that much, we offered Dior an Apprenticeship.
“From there she has grown in the short time Dior has been with us, she has become a valuable member of the P/D team. Everyone I speak to can’t praise her work and attitude enough.
“The thing that has impressed me most is her attitude, as Dior came to us when she was 16 years old, she handles things in a good manner, gets on with everyone, gets on with the jobs at hand, and has the ambition to be the best.
“Apprenticeships to myself and Lindum are fundamental to the future, with the proper mentors, training and guidance, we are providing the next generation of skilled workers.”
Dior Regan, Painting and Decorating Apprentice at Lincoln College and SkillBuild finalist said: “Being a female in the industry, initially was quite daunting.
“However, I enjoy attending college to practice outside work to refine my skill set. Lindum really looks after me too - I’m very grateful for the experience.”
The National Skills champion will go onto the global WorldSkills event in 2024 in France to represent the UK – the learner will have the opportunity to then represent the EU in the finals hosted by China.
To find out more about our Painting and Decorating provision, please head to: The Lincoln College Group, Lincoln College
Take a look at our facilities and have a chat with our department leads at our next open day, register today at: bit.ly/LincolnOpenDays
