April 20, 2026 - 217 views
Two students from Grŵp Llandrillo Menai are set to represent the UK at the prestigious WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 – turning years of hard work into a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
Yuliia Batrak and Madeleine Warburton, both aged 20, have been selected for Team UK and will compete against top young professionals from more than 80 countries at the global event in Shanghai this September.
Often dubbed the “Skills Olympics”, WorldSkills brings together the world’s most talented apprentices and students to compete in high-pressure contests showcasing technical excellence, precision and innovation.
Yuliia, who studies at Coleg Llandrillo’s Rhos-on-Sea campus, will compete in Restaurant Services. Originally from Kyiv, she moved to North Wales in 2022 following Russia’s invasion and has since built an impressive career path in hospitality.
“I am absolutely thrilled and honoured to be selected to represent the country at the largest international competition in restaurant service,” she said. “I feel incredibly grateful for this amazing opportunity.”
Joining her is apprentice Madeleine Warburton, who will compete in the Renewable Energy category. Based at the Rhyl campus, she is completing an Offshore Wind Turbine Technician Apprenticeship and is passionate about the future of clean energy.
“Being selected to represent the UK at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 is an absolute honour,” she said. “I’m incredibly proud to be doing it as an apprentice with the backing of my tutors.”
Both students have progressed through a rigorous selection process led by WorldSkills UK, including regional and national competitions followed by intensive specialist training.
Their success highlights the strength of vocational education in North Wales, with Grŵp Llandrillo Menai continuing to develop industry-ready talent capable of competing on a global stage.
With around 1,500 competitors and an expected audience of 250,000, this year’s WorldSkills event will shine an international spotlight on emerging talent and future industries.
Coleg Llandrillo principal Paul Flanagan said the achievement was a testament to both students’ dedication and the support of college staff.
“To be selected to represent the UK at WorldSkills is a remarkable achievement,” he said. “It reflects their talent, resilience and the world-class standard of education we are delivering here in North Wales.”
As the countdown to September begins, both competitors are entering the final phase of elite training to ensure they are ready to perform at the highest level.
“This journey began three years ago with a dream of reaching Shanghai,” said Yuliia. “It feels incredible to now see that dream becoming a reality.”
Madeleine added: “I can’t wait to get out to Shanghai to display my skills.”
The competition runs from September 22 to 27, with the pair hoping to return home with medals – and inspire the next generation to follow in their footsteps.
