Mason Moore | Hinckley Reporter | 6 March 2023

NORTH WARWICKSHIRE and South Leicestershire College’s Competition Lead has been recognised as a ‘champion of diversity and inclusion in technical education’ in this year’s WorldSkills UK Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Heroes Awards.

Pami Johal, Head of Competitions for NWSLC, who support students into entering national skills competitions, won the Pioneer Award 2023 for her role in developing the ‘Inclusive Skills’ concept, which was designed for students with educational needs and disabilities.

She has championed the development of these skills competitions as part of WorldSkills UK’s portfolio – helping devise, promote, and create robust challenges for the students.

And, during the three year implementation period, Pami further created test projects for regional qualifiers, as well as the national WorldSkills UK finals.

Pami has been an advocate for inclusive skill competitions, and has successfully increased engagement through Continuing Professional Development (CPD) sessions.

Back in 2017, she was previously recognised as part of the WorldSkills UK 2017 Local Heroes awards.

Marion Plant, Principal and Chief Executive of NWSLC, explained that the college are ‘really proud’ of Pami for receiving the award, and of her Inclusive Skills work.

She explained: “We are really proud of Pami’s work to support Inclusive Skills and this award provides fitting recognition of her commitment and dedication to this scheme.

“We always find that engaging in skills competitions helps students to build their confidence as well as preparing them well for the world of work.

“Our aim is to widen participation in skills competitions across our entire student body and we rely on inspirational colleagues like Pami to help and support every entrant.”