College learners win Gold, Silver and Bronze in Skills Competition Wales 2023

College Merthyr Tydfil learners are celebrated scooping gold, silver and bronze medals at recent national skills competitions.

Each year, learners from across a variety of our vocational courses have the opportunity to engage in a range of national competitions to showcase their skills and knowledge in their subject areas.

This year over 62 learners registered to take part, with one being awarded gold, one being awarded silver and a team win of bronze medals in recognition of their skills levels, dedication and commitment in the following subject areas:

Painting and Decorating learner Crystal Thomas was awarded a gold medal in the Paint and Decorating category and was praised for her precision, style and professionalism. Painting and Decorating tutor Lewis Jones commented:

“On behalf of the College Merthyr Tydfil, we would like to extend our congratulations to Crystal Thomas on winning a gold medal at the Skills Competition Wales event held earlier this year. Your exceptional talent and hard work have made us all proud.

As your tutor, I have witnessed your progress and dedication first hand, and it comes as no surprise to me that you have achieved such a remarkable feat. Your attitude towards your craft and your determination to succeed are truly inspiring.

The College Merthyr Tydfil and all of your tutors are over the moon with your achievements. Your success is a reflection of your hard work, passion, and commitment to your craft, and we are proud to have been a part of your journey. Your performance at the competition was a testament to your skills and creativity. You displayed a level of proficiency that is beyond your level, and your attention to detail and precision were nothing short of impressive. We have no doubt that you will continue to excel in your future endeavours.

Once again, congratulations Crystal on your well-deserved gold medal. You have set a high bar for yourself and for all of our Painting & Decorating students. We are excited to see what the future holds for you and wish you all the success in your career.”

Celebrating alongside Crystal was Lowri May Coughlin, a current L1 vocational studies learner. Lowri, a former Greenfields Special School pupil, achieved a silver award in the Business category. She impressed judges with her skills in the customer service level 1 competition.

Performing arts learners, Emyr Strudwick, Jac Richards, James Price, Patrick Porreca-Lennon, Teigan Linahan , Emma Gough & Euan Evans were awarded a bronze medal in a team win in the Performing Arts category. The learners who are members of the college students' theatre company Theatre Glo gave an outstanding performance. Tutor Kayleigh Adlam comments on the award: “The students created a really authentic piece that said a lot about them as young people in Merthyr. We’re really proud of them - they worked hard and acted professionally on the day, and whatever the outcome, they created something that is truly them”

Lisa M Thomas, College Principle, commented, “We are thrilled to have so many learners take part this year across a variety of challenges from construction through to Customer Service, Enterprise and Media. We are so proud of them all and especially proud of the learners that have been awarded the very best gold, silver and bronze accolades. We strive to provide all of our learners with the very best opportunities to enhance their learning experience and support their progression into employment or higher education and engaging in these competitions provides the perfect opportunity for them to enhance not only their subject skills but also their employability and ‘future-ready’ skills.”