James made it to the finals as one of five acts who performed at the island’s popular venue, Kanye Beach on San Antonio bay.
James, aka ‘DJ J Daly’, from Bebington, in the Wirral, completed an NCFE Level 2 Performance Skills qualification in Liverpool last year and credits the course for giving him the confidence to pursue his DJ career.
Since his studies, James has been actively pursuing his career and enjoyed soaking up the sun in Ibiza where he turned up the heat against 25 hopefuls in the competition.
James said: “I was thrilled to take part in the competition. To enter I supplied a demo of my music and was delighted to find out I’d been shortlisted. I met some amazing DJs and was over the moon to make it to the final.
“The experience and exposure has enabled me to show off my skills and has boosted my confidence. It was fantastic to be able to perform in front of large crowds and as a result of the competition I have made some great contacts.
“I developed a passion for DJing when I was 13 after discovering the American artist, Moby, who I really admire. I bought his album and became hooked on his music, I love that it is multi-genred and he hasn’t pigeon holed himself into one particular style of music.
“The NCFE Performance Skills qualification really helped me on my way. I studied for one day each week and the experience was fantastic, it boosted my ambition and showed me what I wanted to do for a career.”
During the two year, part-time vocational course, he was tasked to produce short pieces of music and performed to local audiences which helped him set his sights firmly on becoming an iconic DJ.
James is looking forward to building on his DJ skills and his love of the music industry by producing his own music and flexing his entrepreneurial skills as he looks to start his own record label.
David Grailey, Chief Executive at NCFE, said: “James is a shining example of how vocational qualifications can help to further develop the skills of learners and give them the best possible start to their future.
“Many young people may find that traditional A-Level qualifications just aren’t for them and prefer the more ‘hands on’ vocational approach. By recognising that every person is different, we can ensure that they each achieve their potential in education and the workplace with relevant qualifications.
“Vocational learning can help learners advance and select a career pathway as well as provide them with the necessary requirements and confidence they need to reach their goals.
“James’ story demonstrates what vocational learners can achieve with a good knowledge, the right skills and the desire to succeed. We’re delighted he did so well in the competition.”
NCFE is a national Awarding Organisation which works with 2000 colleges, schools, training providers and employers to offer 520 qualifications on the QCF and NQF in a range of subject areas.
Vocational qualifications are available at a number of different levels in areas including Arts, Business, Education, Health, IT, Leisure Travel and Tourism and Retail.
For more information regarding NCFE courses, visit www.ncfe.org.uk or call 0191 239 8000
