Meet Alexander Wood: UK Jewellery Competitor at WorldSkills Final 2017
Alexander Wood to Represent UK at WorldSkills Abu Dhabi
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The Goldsmiths’ Company has announced that Alexander Wood has been chosen to represent the UK in the Jewellery Competition at the WorldSkills Finals in Abu Dhabi.
The 44th edition of the world’s leading vocational education and skills excellence competition, which will be held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from 14-19 October 2017, will bring together 1000 apprentices and students from 70 countries, all vying for the top spot in a particular vocational field.
The two-year process has seen competitors win regional heats, a national final, European finals and more recently jump the final hurdle reaching the most testing international standards at a team selection showdown.
Alexander, a Goldsmiths’ Centre Foundation Programme alumni, is currently under the tutelage of Nathaniel Grove at Ian Read Diamond Setters in Kent. He also receives ongoing training from WorldSkills UK Training Manager, Steve Jinks, at the Goldsmiths’ Centre.
Although Alexander prevailed over all other UK entries in jewellery, fellow Goldsmiths’ Company apprentices Hugo Johnson, apprentice to master goldsmith and diamond mounter Richard Talman at RTFJ in Wivelsfield, East Sussex; and Chloe Lightfoot, apprentice to Richard Cornelius at retail jewellers Wolfe & Co in Hatton Garden, provided stiff competition.
Thrilled to be competing in this event, Alexander said,
"It’s amazing to have been selected to represent the UK at World Skills Abu Dhabi 2017. The Goldsmiths’ Company Apprenticeship Scheme has given me the opportunity to continue expanding my skills both as apprentice at Ian Read and through my training with Steve Jinks. I strongly recommend apprenticeships as they equip young people with sought-after skills and boost career prospects."
Dr Neil Bentley, CEO at WorldSkills UK commented,
“We ensure that Team UK members have the skills-set and the right mind-set required to be the best and have the confidence, focus and determination to prove it.”
The Goldsmiths’ Company and the Goldsmiths’ Centre congratulate Alexander on his many achievements and wish him all the best in Abu Dhabi!
Image credits: worldskillsuk.org
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