PEMBROKESHIRE College was at the heart of Wales’ recent success at WorldSkills UK.

After three days of intense competition across five South Wales venues, the college emerged as joint top of the entire UK medal table, tying for first place alongside Cardiff and Vale College.

Across mainstream competitions, Pembrokeshire competitors delivered a stunning set of results:

Gold – Culinary Arts: Otis Lorton; Silver – Restaurant Service: Darcie Garnon; Silver – Beauty Therapy Practitioner: Lily Mathias; Bronze – Welding: Mason Aitchison (Pembrokeshire College / Ledwood); Highly Commended – Metal Fabricator: Henry Nelson.

The College didn’t just dominate in mainstream competitions; it led the UK in Foundation Skills too.

With more than 70 SEND and high-needs competitors taking part in eight national finals, Foundation Skills once again proved to be one of the most inspiring parts of WorldSkills UK with Pembrokeshire College topping the league table here as well with the following results:

Gold – Creative Media (Team Life Skills Academy): Denver Picton, Dylan Raymond, Phoebe Stannett; Gold – Horticulture: Junior Rozhon; Silver – Horticulture: Matthew Duncombe; Highly Commended – Horticulture: Celyn Sollis.

From engineering and creative media to hospitality, beauty and horticulture, Pembrokeshire College has proven that learners from West Wales can outperform and outshine the very best in the UK.

Pembrokeshire College Principal Dr Barry Walters said: “To finish top of the UK in both mainstream and Foundation Skills is an extraordinary achievement and a moment of immense pride for our College and our county.

“Our learners have shown professionalism, resilience and talent at the very highest national level. Their success reflects the dedication of our staff, the strength of our employer partnerships, and the ambition that drives Pembrokeshire College every single day.

“We are absolutely thrilled for every medal winner, the tutors and family who supported them to compete - and for every competitor who pushed themselves to be their best.”