Our partnership with WorldSkills UK

The skills people build today shape where they can go next.

That's why Pearson works with WorldSkills UK. Together, we're helping learners build the technical, professional and employability skills employers need, while showcasing the value of technical and vocational education across the UK.

From engineering and digital technologies to health and social care and the creative industries, WorldSkills UK celebrates skills that open doors. Through national and international skills competitions, learners can test themselves, gain real-world experience and demonstrate what they're capable of on a global stage.

Many competitors have developed those skills through Pearson qualifications, including BTEC programmes, that support career skills development and prepare learners for the future workforce.

Learn more about our partnership

What is WorldSkills?

Often called the "Skills Olympics", WorldSkills brings together learners from around the world through skills competitions that celebrate technical excellence and industry skills.

For learners, it's a chance to develop confidence, gain experience and benchmark their abilities against international standards. For educators, employers and further education providers, it offers valuable insight into the future skills shaping industries across the UK and beyond.

WorldSkills UK helps raise standards in technical education while supporting FE skills excellence and encouraging more young people to explore career opportunities through vocational learning and competition-based learning.

WorldSkills Shanghai 2026

Skills that take you further

Meet the competitors representing Team UK at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.

They'll put their technical and professional skills to the test in some of the world's leading skills competitions, demonstrating the future skills employers are looking for.

Explore their stories, training and achievements, and see how technical education, apprenticeships and vocational qualifications have helped them prepare for competition on the global stage.  

Previous competitors

See where skills can lead

These former WorldSkills competitors have built careers in engineering, healthcare, hospitality, aviation and digital industries. Their stories show how vocational education, competition-based learning and determination can turn skills into career opportunities.

See how Pearson qualifications and WorldSkills experiences helped them develop confidence, build expertise and take the next step in their careers.

Frequently asked questions

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WorldSkills International Partnership - Image of student with tools working on an engine of a plane

From learning to the limelight

Alongside our partnership with WorldSkills UK, we’re helping to put real-world skills on the global stage as a Platinum Partners of WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.

Discover the ultimate test of skills

Discover our vocational and technical qualifications

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