Daryl set for World Skills

Nationwide technician Daryl Head has qualified for World Skills 2017 in Abu Dhabi this October.

Daryl, who graduated from the Thatcham Research Automotive Academy in 2015, started his apprenticeship in paint just days after leaving school. Since then he has gone on to compete in the National Skill Competition and be named Nationwide Apprentice of the Year.

Three years after beginning his training, Daryl was scouted to join Team UK during a Skill Auto competition, and earlier this year he was named as the UK representative in his discipline for World Skills 2017.

Daryl said, ‘It has been an amazing experience for me so far and with the support of my employer Nationwide, friends, family and Thatcham Research, I successfully made it through the selection process. I always wanted to work in the repair industry, tinkering with cars with my dad who was self-employed in the trade from a young age. I knew that university wasn’t for me and that an apprenticeship would be a better option. There are so many opportunities within the industry, and so many areas to specialise in.’

Dean Lander, head of repair sector services, Thatcham Research Academy, said, ‘We are proud that Daryl has been so incredibly successful. As we continue to see a real shortage of skilled technicians, he is a fine example of the young talent that must be attracted into the industry.’

Louise Cope, people director at Nationwide, said, ‘We are so incredibly proud of Daryl. The determination and attitude he has demonstrated throughout his apprenticeship and career so far with us makes him a great asset to the team. The Nationwide Team has supported him throughout and will continue to do so during the entire World Skills competition. Daryl is the embodiment of our values, as we always strive for continuous improvement and believe our people are central to our success. We wish him the best of luck at World Skills in Abu Dhabi and look forward to a bright future as his career flourishes with Nationwide.’

See the first instalment of ‘Daryl’s Diary’ video here https://youtu.be/4fxgLQE0cgI