See, do and try - You could do it all at The Skills Show

From 19-21 November The Skills Show - the largest skills and careers event in the United Kingdom (UK) - was brimming with excitement over competition in more than 55 WorldSkills UK Skills Competitions, and buzzing with the energy of approximately 75,000 visitors inspired to experience - first hand - interactive "Have a Go" activities showing them a bit about work-based skills from web design to healthcare. There were sessions where you could listen to professionals telling the story of the pathway to their success, conversation areas where you could speak with representatives from colleges and employers, and stands where you could learn about different industries, technologies, training opportunities, and products. The "Your Next Step" area provided information and applications for apprenticeships, traineeships, and work placements; at "The Staff Room", teachers, parents and guardians, and career professionals gained advice and shared ideas and resources related to career support.

The event is part of Find a Future - the organization that brings together WorldSkills UK Skills Competitions, The Skills Show, and The Skills Show Experience. Adding to the excitement at this year's Show, for the first time the annual National Finals of WorldSkills UK took place, and selections were made for the UK’s Squad for WorldSkills Abu Dhabi 2017. Members of Squad UK will now participate in a training and development programme which will include the selection of Team UK ahead of WorldSkills Abu Dhabi 2017. The development programme will include a series of milestones and benchmarks which Squad UK Competitors must achieve to progress.

Among the many individuals with highly positive things to say about The Skills Show is Theo Paphitis, Patron for The Skills Show, and well-known entrepreneur and executive. Paphitis says, “I always make time to fit in a visit to the event, however busy my diary, because it inspires me and I find out new things – so how much more exciting must it be for a young person seeking a future career? Watching the UK’s most talented apprentices and learners demonstrate their skills in WorldSkills UK Skills Competitions or hearing the successful Team UK representatives from WorldSkills São Paulo 2015 talk about their experiences is hugely inspiring for young people visiting the show. The event showcases the next generation of talented young people, who will be the backbone of the UK’s future workforce, and it is up to all of us to give them the inspiration they need.”

WorldSkills Foundation was front-and-centre at The Show on the Autodesk stand where the “A New Look at Skills” (ANLAS) project was showcased in connection with a hands-on activity with jewellery. The project made its debut in 2014 at The Skills Show; was a singular highlight at WorldSkills São Paulo 2015; and here served as an example of the ongoing collaboration between Autodesk and WorldSkills. The ANLAS project resources are freely available to include in teaching, learning, and training, as well as to support internal and external conferences and events with eye-catching and clear explanations of specific skills. You can find the resources at www.worldskills.org/a-new-look-at-skills.