NRC Co Antrim apprentice to represent Team UK at EuroSkills Herning 2025

Jamie Matthews

Jamie Matthews, a talented apprentice joiner from Antrim, has been selected to represent the United Kingdom at Europe’s largest skills competition, EuroSkills Herning 2025, taking place in Denmark from 9–13 September.

Currently training with Northern Regional College and employer Mivan, Jamie has earned his place on Team UK after excelling in national skills competitions run by WorldSkills UK, in partnership with Pearson (FTSE: PSON.L), the global leader in lifelong learning.

This prestigious opportunity sees Jamie preparing to compete against Europe’s most skilled young professionals across a broad range of disciplines that are vital for the future workforce. Team UK’s selection follows rigorous competition and months of intensive assessment, with the final training phase now underway ahead of the event in Herning.

A Showcase of Talent and Training

WorldSkills UK leverages the EuroSkills competition to promote skills excellence across the UK, aiming to embed world-class standards in training and vocational education.

The Herning event is also viewed as a critical indicator of the UK’s international competitiveness in technical fields and serves as a stepping stone toward the next WorldSkills Competition, set for Shanghai in September 2026.

Speaking on his selection, Jamie Matthews said:

“Being selected to represent the UK at EuroSkills is a huge honour. I’ve been working really hard with my mentors at Northern Regional College and Mivan to reach this level, and I’m excited to showcase the skills I’ve developed. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I’m going to give it everything I’ve got.”

National Pride and Global Ambition

Ben Blackledge, Chief Executive of WorldSkills UK, praised the calibre of this year’s competitors:

“We are so excited to be supporting and nurturing this fantastic group of young professionals as they head for Denmark to compete.

“They will be tested to the highest standards, showcasing the skills that global employers are looking for, and will return to the UK with the knowledge and experience that will turbo charge their careers.

”EuroSkills is ultimately a test of how internationally competitive UK skills are. It gives us the impetus to raise standards at home and help more young people get high quality jobs.”

Jamie’s success has also been welcomed by his college and employer. Mel Higgins, Principal and Chief Executive of Northern Regional College, remarked:

“We are incredibly proud of Jamie and his achievements so far. His success reflects the exceptional standard of training and support available at the College, as well as the strength of our partnerships with employers like Mivan. Representing the UK at EuroSkills is a tremendous achievement, and we’re confident Jamie will be an outstanding ambassador for Northern Ireland and for skills excellence.”

Corporate Support and Sector Recognition

Pearson continues its commitment to vocational education and training through its ongoing partnership with WorldSkills UK.

Freya Thomas Monk, Managing Director of Pearson Qualifications, commented:

“We are incredibly proud to support this inspiring group of young people as they prepare for the EuroSkills challenge this year. Celebrating the best of technical and vocational education and raising the prestige of the sector is very important to us. I wish Team UK the best of luck as they prepare to compete in Denmark in September.”

Pearson is the official partner of Team UK for both EuroSkills Herning 2025 and WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, building on its successful collaboration during WorldSkills Lyon in 2024.