Skills Competition Wales Inspires Next Generation of Creative Talent at UWTSD

Participation in Skills Competition Wales is proving to be a key stepping stone for students progressing into higher education at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD). By experiencing university-level facilities, teaching environments and creative briefs first-hand, students are able to make confident, informed choices about their academic and professional futures.

Skills Competition Wales raises the profile of skills by giving students, trainees, and apprentices the chance to test and improve their abilities through competition. Funded by the Welsh Government and delivered by a network of colleges, work-based learning providers, and employer-led organisations, the competitions align with WorldSkills standards and support the needs of the Welsh economy.

Students across Surface Pattern & Textiles and Photography programmes credit their experience of the competition with giving them first-hand insight into UWTSD’s facilities, and industry-focused approach, ultimately influencing their decision to progress to the University to study.

From Competition to Campus

Ellie Vaughan, from Swansea, is now studying Surface Pattern and Textiles at UWTSD, having previously completed a Foundation Year in Art and Design at Llwyn y Bryn, Gower College Swansea.

“Taking part in a skills competition played a big role in my decision to choose UWTSD,” said Ellie. “It gave me the chance to experience the studio environment and facilities first-hand, which really stood out. The course offers clear career progression, live briefs and trips abroad that broaden creative and professional perspectives.

“I love how much my campus has to offer. The studio spaces are great to work in, the Apple Mac suites are a huge bonus, and the lectures are genuinely enjoyable and engaging.” 

Eva Kingston-Gharaati, (pictured) also from Swansea, completed A Levels at Olchfa School and a Foundation Year at Gower College Swansea.

“During my foundation year, I had the opportunity to work within UWTSD for the surface pattern skills competition, and after experiencing the vast facilities the studio had to offer first-hand, it solidified my decision that this was the right place for me,” Eva said.

“The briefs we receive are very broad, which allows experimentation, but also encourage in-depth research into artists and designers from around the world.”

Thea Wakeford also traces her journey to UWTSD back to Skills Competitions Wales and outreach workshops.

“Before I was even an official student here, through the competitions, I had support from UWTSD throughout my studies,” said Thea.

“The open-plan studio, the ability to collaborate with different year groups, and the approachable lecturers create a comfortable, creative atmosphere. With the University’s support, I’ve even been able to set up a small business alongside my studies.”

Photography Pathways

Joseph Allen, from Swansea, is studying Documentary Photography and Visual Activism at UWTSD, having previously completed Art & Design and Photography qualifications at Gower College Swansea.

“The equipment and studio spaces at UWTSD allow me to reach my full potential as a photographer,” said Joseph.

“The experienced lecturers create an excellent learning environment, and the freedom to expand my practice has helped me grow into a stronger photographer.”

Joseph aspires to become a photography lecturer or establish himself as a documentary photographer or photojournalist. He is joined on the programme by other Skills Competition Wales alumni, including Evangeline Roberts, a previous competition winner.

In total, 5 Photography students have progressed onto the course.

Dr Mark Cocks, Dean of UWTSD’s Wales Institute of Science and Art said: “Skills Competition Wales provides an exceptional platform for young people to experience the very best of skills-based education in a real, professional environment. What is especially powerful is seeing how participation in these competitions gives students the confidence to progress into higher education and envision ambitious creative careers.

“At UWTSD, we are deeply committed to widening access, nurturing talent and creating clear progression pathways from further education into university and beyond. The success of these students demonstrates the value of hands-on learning, outstanding facilities and dedicated staff who genuinely care about student success. We are incredibly proud to support Skills Competition Wales and to welcome so many competition participants into our creative community.”

About Skills Competition Wales 2026

Skills Competition Wales 2026 will feature 65 competitions, including six new disciplines such as Textiles & Surface Pattern Skills, Ceramics & Craft Skills, and Sustainable Agriculture. Competitions will take place across Wales in February 2026.

UWTSD will host competitions at:

• Carmarthen campus – 4 February (Performing Arts, Music)
• Swansea – Swansea College of Art (Dynevor campus) and IQ at the University’s Swansea Waterfront campus – 5 February (Computing, Engineering, Accounting)

Further Information

Rebecca Davies

Executive Press and Media Relations Officer    
Corporate Communications and PR    
Email: rebecca.davies@uwtsd.ac.uk    
Phone: 07384 467071