Weston College electrical apprentice, Marcus Pan, competed in the SPARKS Learner of the Year 2026 competition, working on an electrical build against other learners from across the UK. After winning the South West regional competition in January, Marcus progressed to the final against six other regional winners and placed second overall.
The SPARKS competition brings together individuals from across the UK to compete for the title of Learner of the Year award and showcase their talent among other students within the industry.
Marcus is a Level 3 electrical installation and maintenance apprentice with Holden Electrical and tutors described him as a hardworking and determined student who demonstrated an outstanding approach, attitude and standard of work throughout the competition. 
The finals were a demanding two-day installation involving multiple systems and components, all completed against strict industry criteria in a time-sensitive environment. Competitors were required to install, power up, test and fault-find their work under pressure, demanding both technical excellence and resilience.
Marcus received multiple job offers as a result of his success, however, he remains focused on completing his apprenticeship and continuing his journey with Holden Electrical.
Marcus said: “The build was challenging as I’ve not done much metal work but, overall, it was good and I feel I timed it well.
“This competition has also given me connections to many people and companies which may be helpful in the future, but it has also built my confidence knowing that my standard of work is good enough to win such a huge achievement.”
Richard Hanney, Head of Construction at Weston College, added: “We are incredibly proud of Marcus for the professionalism, confidence and skill he demonstrated throughout this competition.
“Competing in an unfamiliar environment alongside other highly talented students is never easy, yet Marcus remained composed and self-assured from start to finish. He applied his abilities with precision and professionalism, ultimately achieving an outstanding result.
“Providing students with opportunities like this not only strengthens their confidence but also gives them a valuable advantage within the industry.
“Experiences of this standard help students build meaningful professional networks, develop essential career skills, receive professional-standard tools and equipment that support their development, and enhance their portfolios by competing in such prestigious competitions.”
The competition forms part of the Construction Careers Excellence Hub which is designed to be the launching pad for learners’ careers.
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