A Nissan dealership in Cambridgeshire was delighted to be involved in a skills competition at a local college of further education recently.
Smiths Nissan of Peterborough proudly supported an inter-college skills contest at Peterborough College, part of the Inspire Education Group. It was held to celebrate the impressive talent and ambition of students studying vocational subjects across the region.
The competition was endorsed by WorldSkills UK, a partnership involving the worlds of education, industry and the governments of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. It brought learners together to showcase their abilities in bricklaying, carpentry, electrical work, engineering, automotive and plumbing.
Students worked in front of a panel of industry professionals, gaining valuable feedback while connecting with potential employers.
As part of Smiths Nissan’s commitment to developing future automotive professionals, David Slevin, Service Manager at the dealership, presented the motor vehicle skills competition winner, Rory King, with a very special prize: a tour of the Nissan factory in Sunderland.
This experience will give Rory, a student at Cambridge Regional College, the opportunity to see one of the UK’s most advanced automotive manufacturing facilities in action.
Advanced engineering
Sunderland is where the new Nissan LEAF, as well as Qashqai and Juke, are built for customers across the UK and Europe.
The visit will provide Rory with valuable insight into large-scale vehicle production, advanced engineering processes, and the innovation driving the future of the automotive industry.
As well as supporting the competition, Smiths Nissan also took a selection of exciting vehicles to the campus, including the All-New MICRA – showcasing the next generation of Nissan’s popular compact model.
The display helped spark conversations with students about careers in the automotive industry and the rapidly evolving world of vehicle technology.
Gary McPartland, Assistant Principal at Inspire Education Group, said the competition was incredibly valuable for both students and employers. He added: “WorldSkills UK endorsement is important recognition of the quality and ambition of our skills competitions. These events give learners the chance to showcase their abilities against recognised standards, while allowing employers to see talent in action.
‘‘It’s a powerful way to strengthen progression into apprenticeships and skilled employment, while supporting the needs of the local and regional economy.”
Valuable pathways
The competition was supported by a wide range of local and national employers, who supplied judges to ensure each activity reflected real industry standards.
David Slevin, Service Manager at Smiths Nissan Peterborough, said: ‘‘Supporting initiatives that connect education with industry is an important part of investing in the future of the automotive sector.
‘‘Events like the Inter-College Skills Competition help nurture emerging talent, strengthen partnerships with education providers and create valuable pathways into apprenticeships and skilled employment. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Peterborough College and supporting the next generation of skilled professionals.’’