Trafford & Stockport College Group has had an exciting few weeks as learners from across our campuses competed in this year’s GMC Skills Competitions. With events taking place at Stockport, Trafford, Bolton and Bury, our students have demonstrated technical ability, creativity and professionalism and we’re very happy to share some of the highlights.
On 12th March, Stockport College proudly hosted the Hair & Beauty Competitions, welcoming ten colleges, over one hundred competitors and a full timetable of thirteen competitions inspired by this year’s theme, ‘Enchanted.’ The atmosphere was buzzing as learners brought their creative designs, techniques and impressive artistry to life in front of the judges.
Students from across TSCG delivered outstanding work. Stockport College competitors stood out throughout the day, with wins in Media Makeup, Nails and Beauty, and Trafford College students also secured top places across various categories. Head Judge Jacqui O’Sullivan, Lecturer in Hair & Beauty, described the event as “a significant milestone,” praising both the quality of the work and the commitment of staff who supported their learners. She also highlighted how inspiring it was to see such professionalism and creativity on display, reflecting the collaborative and ambitious spirit of our community.
On 17 March, our Pre‑Supported Internship students took part in a heritage‑themed skills competition hosted by Bury College.
Learners were involved in a range of activities throughout the day, from building a worker bee‑hive to pitching enterprise concepts. One of the standout successes was the Heritage Sweet Stall, created through local research and product sampling, which impressed the judging panel and was awarded Best Submission among ten competing colleges.
Energy was high as Trafford learners excelled in the Manchester Quiz, while Cheadle was recognised for Best Teamwork, and Tameside secured the title of Overall Winner.
Over at Bolton College, learners competed in the IT Solutions category, where Stockport College students Fin Yildrin and Ethan Bennett earned a fantastic second place. Their performance showed great problem‑solving skills and technical understanding, standing out in a field of talented competitors.
Judges commented on the incredibly high standard across the competition, even noting that they would “happily employ some of the medal winners”.
Enterprise and Travel & Tourism Competition at Trafford College
A huge well done to all learners and tutors who took part in this year’s Enterprise and Travel Competition, hosted at Trafford College (Altrincham Campus). Trafford received excellent feedback for hosting, with particular praise for our Student Ambassadors and the smooth organisation of the event.
Reflecting on This Year’s Achievements, Joan Scott, TSCG Skills Specialist, said, “The GM Colleges skills competitions are so valuable for our learners, they give them a chance to showcase their technical excellence.
In addition to improving their technical skills, they also provide an opportunity to develop personal skills that employers are looking for such as building resilience and using initiative. The competitions are all endorsed by WorldSkills UK and are a perfect stepping-stone to participation in their national skills competitions.” At TSCG we are incredibly proud of all our learners who took part in this year’s GMC Skills Competitions. With registrations for WorldSkills UK now open, we’re encouraging students to get involved and show off their talents!
