Outstanding WorldSkills UK Success for Sixth Form College Students
Two students from the City of Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College have achieved exceptional national success at the WorldSkills UK Health & Social Care Finals, one of the UK’s most prestigious skills competitions that showcases top young talent across vocational and technical subjects. The Health & Social Care category is among the most competitive, attracting over 700 entrants each year.
Ruby Collier and Pippa Mellor-Pringle were among only eight competitors nationwide to reach the finals, held at Coleg Gwent, Newport Campus. Competitors were assessed through 11 practical modules designed to reflect real-world Level 3 Health & Social Care practice. These included delivering person-centred care, responding to emergency situations, supporting individuals with complex needs, and demonstrating professional communication in hospital, residential, and home-care environments.
The College is delighted to celebrate our students’ achievements:
- Ruby Collier – Bronze Medal (3rd in the UK)
- Pippa Mellor-Pringle – Top 8 national ranking
Their accomplishments are particularly notable as Health & Social Care is not their main study programme. Both Ruby and Pippa participate in Health & Social Care as an Aspire+ activity, part of the college’s Aspire Curriculum, which enables learners to develop wider skills beyond the classroom and prepares them for life after college. Alongside their regular studies, both students committed to weekly Aspire+ training and additional WorldSkills preparation, demonstrating exceptional dedication, professionalism, and compassion throughout the competition.
Ruby Collier, a first-year BTEC Applied Science student, said:
“This experience has opened my eyes to Health and Social Care as a career. Competing alongside such an inspiring group of people was incredible, and winning a bronze medal is something I never expected.”
Pippa Mellor-Pringle, a second-year A Level student studying Chemistry, Biology, Maths and Psychology, added:
“The competition showed me just how important communication, empathy and compassion are in this field. These qualities make a real difference to the people we support.”
Kim Dow, Teacher of Health and Social Care, commented:
“I am unbelievably proud of Ruby and Pippa. Their dedication, professionalism, and kindness throughout the competition were outstanding. They were a credit to themselves and to the college.”
Ruby has also secured a place in the WorldSkills UK Squad, giving her the opportunity to progress to future EuroSkills and WorldSkills international competitions.
The College is extremely proud of both students for their remarkable achievements and for representing the institution with such maturity and enthusiasm.









