AN apprentice welder who learned his craft at Keighley College has reached the finals of a national skills competition.

Harry Pullan will battle it out against nine other contenders in his category for the WorldSkills UK crown in November.

The 23-year-old, who works for Byworth Boilers in Parkwood Street, Keighley, won through to the finals after impressing judges in regional heats.

"It feels unreal to have reached the finals but I am glad to see my efforts pay off!" says Harry.

"I love my job, and to be part of the final ten in this competition just lets me know I’m in the right place.

"Working as an apprentice has provided me with the best of both worlds – I get all the practical, on-the-job training and then at college gain the technical knowledge and my qualifications."

He has been with Byworth Boilers since last summer.

Harry adds: "My knowledge and skill has increased so much since joining Byworth, and Keighley College is the reason I ended up there – and in the WorldSkills competition. I can’t say enough good things about the college. I owe a huge thanks to my tutor, Adam Sutcliffe, and to my assessor Ash Fieldsend for their support."

Mr Sutcliffe pays tribute to the student.

"Harry is a top student and has been since he started as a Level 2 apprentice," he says.

"He’s keen in the classroom and wants to learn, and practically speaking, he just loves to weld – and he’s very good at it!

"Harry is a cracking lad and a pleasure to have in the group. We are all chuffed for him, and I think he will do well come finals day."

In total, more than 400 students and apprentices will compete across 51 skills categories – ranging from digital construction to health and social care – at the WorldSkills UK finals.

The competition will take place at colleges, independent training providers and universities throughout Greater Manchester between November 14 and 17.

Harry says: "All I can do in the final is focus, work and get my tasks done.

"If I get a podium finish then I'll be over the moon, but even if I place last I'll be happy because to be in the top ten is a huge achievement for me.

"As for the future, I’ll have to wait and see. I am very happy at Byworth but at the same time I'd love to weld across the world."

For more about apprenticeship opportunities at Keighley College, visit keighleycollege.ac.uk.