Eight students from the construction program at Uppsala Vocational High School Jälla have qualified for Yrkes-SM in Stockholm on May 4–6. The competition, organized by WorldSkills Sweden, features vocational challenges like machine operation, masonry, and tiling. Teacher Gustav Östholm credits the success to the school's hands-on approach and dedication.
Uppsala Vocational High School Jälla celebrates a record number of participants in Yrkes-SM, with eight students from its construction program. The pupils include Rasmus Karlsson and Jonny Eriksson in machine operation, Emil Hansson in masonry, Tindra Nord in tiling, Vera Funke, Olle-Bror Jorlin, and Kristoffer Mattson in house building/wood, and William Forslund in sheet metal work. This marks an increase from prior years.
Gustav Östholm, a teacher in masonry and tiling, attributes the achievement to the school's industry ties and student motivation. "It largely depends on the engagement from both students and teachers. We work very practically and close to the industry," he says. Teachers conducted internal selections and provided targeted training for competition tasks.
"Teachers have worked hard to identify students through internal trials. Afterward, we offered extra support," Östholm adds. The school fosters an environment that encourages growth, emphasizing vocational skills via hands-on practice and feedback.
The school provides vocational training in a natural setting with modern equipment and industry partnerships for internships. Yrkes-SM has been held biennially since 2004.
