College of North West London (CNWL) is proud to announce that one of its students has made to the final stage of a prestigious national competition.
Cassandra Fernandes — a first-year Level 3 Science student at the College of North West London — has been recognised by WorldSkills UK in the Laboratory Technicians Category and is in the running to take the top spot as she faces seven fellow learners from across the UK at the final event at Manchester University in November.
Cassandra’s achievement in reaching the finals is a remarkable one: competing against first-year undergraduate biomedical students; showcasing her talents in laboratory techniques, data analysis and problem-solving at Middlesex University; before getting through to the regional qualifiers last month; then becoming one of the final names to make the final eight in Manchester.
WorldSkills UK’s competitions are designed by industry experts and help young people grow personally and professionally by developing their technical and employability skills. The competition-based development programme is proven to upskill and develop young people from all backgrounds and abilities.
Robert Halfon, Minister for Skills, Apprenticeships and Higher Education, said: “Congratulations and best of luck to all of the apprentices and students competing in the national finals this year and showcasing their exceptional talents in a diverse range of skill disciplines, from manufacturing and engineering to health and social care.”
Ben Blackledge, Chief Executive of WorldSkills UK, said: “I offer my congratulations to all of the National Finalists. The young people that take part in our national programme are a true inspiration and demonstrate the skills we have in the UK.”
Dr Fatima Hussein¸ CNWL science lecturer, said: “Behind every successful laboratory-based endeavour is a team of skilled technicians who provide the necessary training and resources.
“Our institution boasts an excellent team of technicians who have worked tirelessly to equip our students with the practical skills and knowledge needed to excel in their field.”
“My experience at College of Northwest London, has been exciting, it has been thrilling and it has been full of opportunities, and we have the tutors that help us whenever we’re in need. We go on educational trips to get a feel for what university life is like. We have the careers advisors that help us on our path, our university path.”
“The facilities here are brilliant. You have range of courses you can study. My teachers in the Performing Arts department have got history in the industry, which is very useful. You get to ask them for advice and actual knowledge from the industry, and take that into your own work within the college also afterwards. ”
“At City of Westminster College, my experience has been the best of all the other colleges I’ve attended. The reason I like CWC is because the teachers make my journey easier with assessment and exams. I’m a Level Two Science student and I enjoy my lessons because most of them are practical, which are helpful for me. I love studying at CWC because you meet people from other countries – all over the world and from all different communities.”
“My favourite thing about studying here has definitely got to be the teachers. They’re really helpful, kind and in the industry, so it’s good.”
“The technical knowledge and hands-on experience gained during my apprenticeship at College of North West London have been invaluable, particularly in understanding site processes, health and safety requirements and the understanding of electrical systems.”
“My experience studying at City of Westminster College has been amazing. It’s been so welcoming; I enjoy it very much because of the staff members we have here. They’re very approachable and I could come to them with any question, and it will be answered straight away. And if I come early for a class, I can use the Learning Resources Centre, I can use the computers, the books, just to continue all my studies outside the classroom time.”
“The training process was seamless. I had good instructors who were very flexible, supporting people of all learning levels. On the last day after our exams, a security company came and did a presentation. We had the opportunity to have an interview afterwards. I told them about my experiences, and they said I would be a good fit. I formally applied for a role and started with the company soon after. Getting into security has opened doors for me. I hope I will continue to take steps up the career ladder.”
“Coming to study at the City of Westminster College was the best decision that I had ever made. The teachers are very accommodating – they help you learn things in a way that might be easier for you to learn. They are very supportive and I think that’s one of the best things about learning here.”
“I was so grateful to have won Apprentice of the Year at the West London Business Awards 2026, I could not have done it without the support my company Size Group and the College of North West London.”
