Team UK deliver medal winning performance at WorldSkills Lyon 2024

Apprentices and students of vocational qualifications from across the UK demonstrated their world-class skills on the global stage this week, delivering a strong response to the Prime Minister’s plans to rebuild Britain.

The members of Team UK, selected, mentored and trained by WorldSkills UK, have been recognised as among the most skilled young people in the world by leading global industry experts following their medal winning performance at WorldSkills Lyon 2024, known as the ‘skills Olympics’. 

Over 1,500 young people from 69 countries competed over four days of tough competition in 62 different skills at WorldSkills Lyon. The event was watched by over 250,000 spectators.

The IMI are very proud of David McKeown and Miguel Harvey, who progressed to the WorldSkills final in Lyon from the IMI’s Skills Competitions. Both delivered a fantastic performance, with David winning bronze in Autobody Repair, whilst Miguel received a Medallion for Excellence in Car Painting. A Medallion for Excellence is awarded to those competitors who reach 700 points (world standard) or more but do not receive a medal.

Skills Minister Jacqui Smith said: “As we close this incredible WorldSkills competition, I want to congratulate everyone involved. You’ve all showcased exceptional skill, dedication, and creativity, proving that the future is in capable hands. Everyone competing in WorldSkills has demonstrated their potential as future leaders and innovators. We want to support everyone across the country to access opportunity, no matter who they are or where they’re from. A big thank you to the judges, mentors, and organisers. Your efforts make this all possible. Let’s continue to put skills at the heart of our vision for Britain.”

Ben Blackledge, Chief Executive, WorldSkills UK said: “This is a fantastic result for the team and the UK as a whole.  High quality skills development is crucial to growing the economy, and Team UK’s medal-winning performance in front of a global audience sends a strong message that the UK is a world-class place to invest, develop talent and create jobs.”

Freya Thomas Monk, Managing Director of Vocational Qualifications and Training at Pearson, said: “My warmest congratulations to Team UK for their impressive performance this week.  I have really enjoyed the incredible sense of community and collaboration here in Lyon - WorldSkills isn’t just about celebrating achievements, it’s about sending a powerful message to governments, educators, and industries about the critical role of skills in driving economic growth and personal success. As a leader in lifelong learning, Pearson is proud to partner with WorldSkills UK.”

WorldSkills Lyon 2024 took place from 10-15 September. The next WorldSkills Competition will take in 2026 in Shanghai, China.