The annual competition, delivered by NCG, brings together learners from across the group’s colleges to take part in industry-based challenges designed to test technical ability, precision and professionalism. Modelled on the standards championed by WorldSkills UK, the event reflects the expectations learners will encounter in real working environments.

Industry in Action

As a long-standing partner of NCG, we were pleased to support the competition, which saw learners compete across 11 skill areas, spanning construction, business, creative and service sectors.

Our Chief Executive, Graham Hasting-Evans, judged the Electrical Competition and presented the award to this year’s winner, George Collins. NOCN Group colleagues also contributed expertise across the construction categories, supporting judging panels and helping ensure that assessment standards reflected current industry practice.

The level of skill, focus and technical competence on display across all disciplines was exceptional, a testament to both the learners and the quality of training delivered across the NCG network. Their achievements highlight the strength of technical education across NCG’s colleges and the importance of employer-led challenge in developing occupational competence - congratulations to all finalists and winners!

A Partnership Focused on Quality

Beyond the competition itself, the event also reflects the strength of the ongoing partnership between NOCN Group and NCG.

Ross Radford, Apprenticeship Quality Manager at NCG, said:

“NCG works closely with NOCN Group, a leading independent Assessment Organisation, to ensure high-quality and compliant assessment for construction apprenticeship standards. Through this partnership, NCG benefits from NOCN Group’s flexible and responsive assessment services, which are widely used across construction-related sectors. NOCN Group’s established role as an Assessment Organisation for a range of construction standards further supports NCG in delivering robust, industry-aligned apprenticeship outcomes.”

As an independent Assessment Organisation, NOCN Group remains committed to supporting providers and employers in delivering fair, rigorous and industry-relevant assessments. Events such as the NCG Skills Competition demonstrate what can be achieved when education and industry collaborate with a shared focus on excellence.

We look forward to continuing our work together and to supporting future initiatives that raise standards and strengthen the UK’s skilled workforce.