23 June 2025
On Saturday 14 June 2025, Bucher Municipal apprentices from Orbital South Colleges showcased their skills and swept the board at the Virtual Welding Competition held at Fort Nelson in Portsmouth.
Hosted by the Welding Institute, the competition gave apprentices the opportunity to trial state-of-the-art VR welding technologies, which have rapidly grown in popularity in recent years. These tools allow professionals, trainees and even non-welders to improve their knowledge and skills in a safe and controlled environment.
Each competitor was required to complete a range of welded positions, joints and processes using the latest developments and techniques in virtual welding equipment provided by Fronius. Results were compared and calculated to provide overall scores for competitors. Highest scores were then reviewed, with the top 3 in each category going into the ‘weld-off’.
OSC were pleased to enter 5 apprentices in the trainee category, who claimed a ‘clean sweep’ winning 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. Each category was competitive and there was a variety of prizes available, including cash up to £200 and a selection of gifts donated by TWI Fronius and the Welding Institute.
Dan Burch, Welding Lecturer from ESC said “The event was a fantastic day that had strong representation from established companies and was an opportunity for all to get involved. It was great to see the apprentices engaging with all the other competitors and networking with the participants. We’re also proud of our apprentices and their success.”
Thank you to the Welding Institue for delivering such a successful and inspiring event for our apprentices, and to all the prize donors for supporting the next generation of welding professionals.
Learn more about apprenticeships at East Surrey College.
