BAE Systems apprentice Jack Bateson is one step closer to joining Team UK for the 46th World Skills Shanghai competition in 2021, after winning the gold medal in the Mechanical Engineering: CAD skill category at World Skills UK LIVE (held 15-17 November at the NEC near Birmingham) (www.baesystems.com).

Mr Bateson, from Heysham (near Lancaster), will now join the training programme to qualify to compete at World Skills Shanghai.

He said: “I am thrilled to be one step closer to qualifying for Team UK. Receiving a gold medal at such a prestigious competition feels like such an accomplishment — especially as my colleagues and I worked hard preparing for the challenge.

“I have my fingers crossed that I’ll qualify for the final in China.”

Richard Hamer, education and skills director at BAE Systems, said: “Jack was recognised by the judges for his exceptional skills, exemplary behaviour and hard work.

“It’s right that he should be congratulated for doing so well, especially when up against other candidates of such high quality.

"As one of Britain’s leading companies, at the forefront of advanced engineering and technology, we have a long history of nurturing talent.

"Engineering and manufacturing are essential to the British economy, and our apprentices have a vital role to play in securing the future of our sector.”