Work-based learning helps learners of all ages prepare for the workplace, develop workplace skills, enhance their existing skills, and find a career pathway that suits them. Learners can explore different jobs and industries, get hands-on experience in their chosen field, and gain industry-recognised qualifications.<\/p>\n
Building skills with SQA qualifications<\/strong><\/p>\n Glasgow-based Jude Magee is working towards the chance to represent the UK at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, a prestigious international event often described as the \u2018skills Olympics\u2019. His journey to the global competition began with a passion for hands-on learning, strengthened by the skills and experience gained through SQA qualifications.<\/p>\n Now working as a Renewable Energy Engineer at HF Mechanical and Electrical and studying at Glasgow Clyde College, Jude\u2019s story is a testament to how high-quality vocational education can open doors to huge opportunities.<\/p>\n \u201cI found I enjoyed more practical subjects at school,\u201d Jude explains. \u201cThat led me to make an early decision to pursue a trade. I knew an apprenticeship was the best route, but I also wanted to strengthen my education beforehand.\u201d<\/p>\n Jude enrolled in two SQA National Certificate awards in Electrical Engineering at Glasgow Clyde College \u2013 first at SCQF level 5, then progressing to level 6. These qualifications, designed to develop both practical skills and theoretical understanding, provided the perfect stepping stone to his career in engineering.<\/p>\n \u201cThroughout these courses the content stayed interesting, and I felt as if I was consistently taking in useful information,\u201d he says. \u201cI would definitely recommend both these courses to other people who may want to go down a similar route. They set me up perfectly for starting an apprenticeship and getting me to where I am now.\u201d<\/p>\n Jude is now working towards an SVQ in Electrical Installation \u2013 another SQA qualification \u2013 as part of his apprenticeship at HF Group.<\/p>\n Taking skills to the world stage<\/strong><\/p>\n Jude\u2019s success at the UK-level WorldSkills Renewable Energy competitions caught the attention of the WorldSkills UK selectors. The team have invited Jude to join their elite 18-month training programme, with the potential to be selected for Team UK and compete against the world\u2019s best in Shanghai in September 2026.<\/p>\n The WorldSkills competition brings together thousands of skilled young people from over 80 countries and is a benchmark for global standards in vocational education. Government representatives, educators, and industry leaders attend to see first-hand how skills training is shaping the future workforce.<\/p>\n Jude sees it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. \u201cI am delighted with my progress to date and for the opportunity and time WorldSkills UK has invested in me,\u201d he says. \u201cI\u2019m excited about the next 18 months to develop and enhance my skill set further, aiming to successfully gain a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to become part of Team UK at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.\u201d<\/p>\n Jude\u2019s message to others thinking about a career in the trades is simple: \u201cTake every opportunity that comes your way.\u201d<\/p>\n Jude\u2019s story is a powerful example of how SQA qualifications, in partnership with further education and industry, provide a solid foundation for Scotland\u2019s skilled workforce. His journey shows how vocational qualifications can open doors to exciting careers \u2013 and even the world.<\/p>\n