Leura web designer Sam Leatherdale and Mt Victoria’s Jade McSorley both won gold in Melbourne earlier this month at the 2016 WorldSkills National Competition.
Mr Leatherdale won for web design and development, Mr McSorley for automotive repair. Katoomba’s Kay-Lee Howlett also won a medal, taking out bronze in beauty therapy.
Mr Leatherdale studies at the Blue Mountains campus while Mr McSorley and Ms Howlett both go to the Western Sydney Institute of TAFE.
Parliament secretary for western Sydney, Ray Williams, said students from both campuses had made their community proud at the competition, in which more than 500 young men and women aged 16-24 years showcased their exceptional talents.
The national competition – now in its 18th year – was held at the Melbourne Showgrounds from October 6-8.
“Education and building our local skilled workforce for the future is incredibly important to the Blue Mountains community,” Mr Williams said.
“What makes these achievements so exciting is that we have some of the most talented students in our own community, representing us and showing a calibre that is a cut above other states and territories on the national stage.
“Congratulations to Sam and Kay-Lee, your community is very proud of your hard work and great results.”
Minister for Skills John Barilaro said TAFE NSW students won 52 out of the 155 awards.
“Vocational education and training through TAFE is a priority for the NSW government and these students are evidence of the high standard of vocational education we continue to invest in across the state,” he said.
“With more than 50 skills categories, this competition is a great way for students to show off their skills, and I congratulate the students who participated, and those who have received awards.”
Photos courtesy of WorldSkills Australia.