UK Skills, an organisation that champions high standards of training and development through Competitions and Awards, is looking for entrants to take part in the 2011 WorldSkills UK competitions. Opening for entry today, the competitions will see talented people from across the country battle it out to be crowned the UK’s best.

The competitions run in over 50 skill areas including bricklaying, autobody repair, plumbing, caring, moving film, hairdressing, IT and engineering.

Putting competitors’ knowledge and practical skills to the ultimate test, the competitions are open to anyone studying or in employment.

The benefits of the competitions are great for both employer and employee highlights Paul Taylor, Technical Training Manager at the Honda Institute commented: “WorldSkills UK Competitions are something that Honda supports wholeheartedly as it fits in perfectly with our values of championing personal development, encouraging competition and promoting the next generation of engineers and technicians.”

Simon Bartley, Chief Executive of UK Skills adds: “WorldSkills UK Competitions play a vital role in championing high standards of training and development helping to equip UK industry with the skills it needs to thrive in the 21 century. By inspiring workers to be their best, we are unlocking the potential of the UK’s current and future workforce.”

In addition to entrants having the opportunity to say they are the best in the UK at their chosen skill, those who take part will also be invited to visit WorldSkills London 2011, a unique global competition where young people from across the globe compete to become the best of the best in their chosen skill. The WorldSkills Competition takes place every two years and will be held at ExCeL London from 5th – 8th October, 2011. The event will be an opportunity to see how education and training can help people build expertise in their chosen skill. There will also be the chance to cheer on Team UK, who will be hoping to beat the UK’s current position of 7th in the World.