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.
Building skills with SQA qualifications
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 ‘skills Olympics’. His journey to the global competition began with a passion for hands-on learning, strengthened by the skills and experience gained through SQA qualifications.
Now working as a Renewable Energy Engineer at HF Mechanical and Electrical and studying at Glasgow Clyde College, Jude’s story is a testament to how high-quality vocational education can open doors to huge opportunities.
“I found I enjoyed more practical subjects at school,” Jude explains. “That 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.”
Jude enrolled in two SQA National Certificate awards in Electrical Engineering at Glasgow Clyde College – 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.
“Throughout these courses the content stayed interesting, and I felt as if I was consistently taking in useful information,” he says. “I 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.”
Jude is now working towards an SVQ in Electrical Installation – another SQA qualification – as part of his apprenticeship at HF Group.
Taking skills to the world stage
Jude’s 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’s best in Shanghai in September 2026.
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.
Jude sees it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. “I am delighted with my progress to date and for the opportunity and time WorldSkills UK has invested in me,” he says. “I’m 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.”
Jude’s message to others thinking about a career in the trades is simple: “Take every opportunity that comes your way.”
Jude’s story is a powerful example of how SQA qualifications, in partnership with further education and industry, provide a solid foundation for Scotland’s skilled workforce. His journey shows how vocational qualifications can open doors to exciting careers – and even the world.
To find out more about vocational qualifications and work-based learning, visit sqa.org.uk/workbasedlearning.
