We spoke to three staff members about this unique journey.��

Engagement Tutor, Callum Taylor, finished sixth form and decided he didn’t want to go to university. He wanted a job instead.��

“After a few weeks of applying for jobs, I wasn’t really getting anywhere so I went to Careers Wales and they referred me to ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ.” Callum explained. “I did a level 1 Customer Service course and after a few months, I was put on placement in Hadfield Road as a teaching assistant. I must’ve done alright, because a few months later I was offered a job.”��

Despite this, teaching wasn’t the first path that came to Callum at ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ. “ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ initially sourced me an admin placement, which I did for a few months,” he recalled. “But it didn’t feel like the right fit for me.” Unsure of his next steps, he returned to the centre to explore other options. That’s when his tutor suggested a placement as a teaching assistant. “I decided to give it a try, and I really enjoyed it. It helped me realise that I was better suited for a role in teaching or training than in admin.”��

This experience set him on a new route. His time as a learner at ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ taught him much more than technical skills – it gave him the knowledge he needed professionally. “I learned how to apply for jobs, present myself in interviews, and become more employable,” he explained. Beyond the practical lessons, he also gained personal insight through wellbeing sessions. “Those sessions helped me think more critically about a lot of issues and prepared me for the challenges of my work placement.”��

His placement as a teaching assistant at Hadfield Road lasted about three months, and it became a turning point in his career. “As the placement was coming to an end, the centre manager took me aside and asked if I’d be interested in turning it into a job.”����

Callum accepted the offer, initially working as a general classroom assistant. About a year later, he transitioned into his current role as an engagement tutor.��

Now, as a learning coach, his role focuses on supporting learners’ wellbeing, but it spans multiple areas. “I deliver wellbeing sessions, have one-on-one chats with learners who might be struggling, and even handle a fair amount of admin,” he said. “It’s a bit of everything, but the most rewarding part is working directly with the learners and seeing their development during their time on programme.”��

However, the transition from learner to staff wasn’t without its challenges. “At first, it was difficult because some of the learners I worked with were people I’d been friendly with as a fellow learner,” he admitted. “But over time, as I gained experience and those learners moved on, it became easier. I’ll never forget my first Christmas party, seeing the staff I worked with as a learner really let their hair down — it was such a different side to them!”����

Looking back, he believes his experiences as a learner have profoundly shaped his approach to his role. “I have so much empathy for our learners because I understand what they’re going through,” he said. “For many of them, we’re not their main priority— they’ve got other challenges in their lives. It’s important not to take it personally when they don’t prioritise their learning.”��

His journey from learner to staff member has also given him a unique perspective on ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ as a whole.

“I’ve seen how ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ works from both sides, and that’s given me a deeper understanding of the learner journey. It’s incredibly rewarding to now be part of that journey for others, helping them navigate their challenges and grow, just as I did.”��

At 17, life after school felt uncertain for Learner Outreach Worker Nazma Hassan. Disengaged and unsure of what career path to pursue, she found herself at a crossroads. “I wasn’t sure what to do,” she said. “But then I met with Careers Wales, and they introduced me to apprenticeship pathways with ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ. It really clicked with me because I’m a practical learner who thrives on-the-job.”��

What made ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ stand out wasn’t just its practical approach, but also the sense of independence it fostered. “I loved that ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ didn’t feel like school. That freedom motivated me to stay engaged with my course.”����

Nazma chose to pursue a Business Administration course, seeing potential for growth in the field. A placement in ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ’s Health & Safety department marked the beginning of her journey. “That’s where it all started,” she said. “I completed my Level 1 Business Admin and had the opportunity to progress to an apprenticeship, where I earned my Level 2 and 3 Business Admin qualifications. I then transitioned to the Data Administration team.”��

Her career goals evolved along the way. “When I first joined ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ, I thought I wanted to be a teacher. But after some work placement experience, I realised it wasn’t for me. I was lucky to figure this out early and pivot toward something that felt like a better fit.”��

Through her time learning with ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ, Nazma gained not just technical skills but also personal resilience. “One of the biggest lessons I learned was how to face challenges head-on and boost my confidence. If something didn’t work out, I found alternatives or sought support from my tutors. I became more independent and ambitious, even when some friends started to disengage from the course. I didn’t let that affect my own progression.”��

Her commitment paid off. After completing her Level 1 Business Admin, her line manager saw her potential and recommended her for an apprenticeship role within ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ. “I went through the interview process with HR and was thrilled to be offered the position,” she said.��

For the next 14 years, she thrived as a Data Administrator. Her role encompassed everything from processing learner payments and managing data entry to auditing and reception duties. But her journey didn’t stop there. “Over a year ago, new roles were developed within the JGW+ Programme, and I applied for an Outreach Recruitment Worker position. I got the job, and it’s been incredible. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow even further.”��

When a friend suggested to Hadfield Receptionist Jess Stiff that she should join her on a hair and barbering course at ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ, the thought of enrolling had never crossed her mind. But after touring the centre, she was intrigued.����

“I hadn’t even heard of ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ before my friend brought it up,” Jess explained, “but once I saw what they offered, I decided to pursue a Level 1 in Animal Care instead, which eventually led to completing my Level 1 Land-Based Studies.”��

Her decision wasn’t random. A deep fascination with wildlife and a strong interest in big cats had shaped her original career goal – to become a zoologist. “I’ve always been fascinated by wildlife,” Jess said. “The idea of working with big cats and studying their behaviours really inspired me.”��

Her time as a learner at ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ became a period of intense growth, both personally and professionally. The course taught her a wide range of practical and transferable skills, which would prove invaluable in her career. “I developed time management, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills,” she said. “I also improved my communication and research abilities. On the practical side, I learned basic animal care skills like feeding, watering, health checks, and proper handling techniques. I even got hands-on experience with enclosure maintenance, including choosing the right substrates and enrichment items.”��

The transition from learner to staff member was an unexpected but welcome twist in her journey. “I was still on programme when I was offered a job,” she recalled. “My tutor at the time really helped me prepare for it. Initially, I started as a placement learner, but soon they decided to take me on full-time. Now, I work here.”��

Today, her role at ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ involves an array of responsibilities. “I handle greeting and welcoming visitors, managing incoming calls and inquiries, as well as overseeing mail and deliveries.������

“There’s also a security aspect to my role, ensuring visitor protocols are followed, and I assist with learners’ certificates. Additionally, I lead tours of the building, giving potential learners insights into our courses and what they entail.”��

Moving from being a learner to becoming part of the staff wasn’t without its challenges. “At first, it was overwhelming,” she admitted. “There was so much to learn and remember. But gradually, I got the hang of things and started to really enjoy it. The environment here is so welcoming and friendly. When I was later transferred to another centre, I felt nervous all over again, but within a week, I settled in and felt comfortable.”��

Her time at ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ is filled with memories that highlight her growth and adaptability. “One of my favourite moments was being on stage and answering questions from Scott Quinnell about my course and career goals,” she shared. “Another standout experience was working in the café, which gave me valuable skills in a completely different setting.”��

Looking back, she credits her experience as a learner at ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ for shaping the way she approaches her work today. “It taught me how to work both independently and as part of a team.��

“I’ve become more punctual, confident, and financially responsible. My communication skills have also improved significantly.”��

The wait is over, the exam results are in and now GCSEs are officially behind you. It’s an exciting time, but for many it is also a time of uncertainty, posing the question ‘what do I do next?’

First introduced in November 2021, the Young Person’s Guarantee��provides under 25s in Wales the offer of support to gain a place in education or training, find a job or become self-employed, and has supported more than��11,000 young people to find jobs��since.

ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ has been a key driver in achieving this as the leading provider of the JGW+ programme in Wales, as such ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ staff and learners joined representatives from Careers Wales and partner organisations – in the opportunity to meet with Mr Gething and feedback on their experiences of delivering and benefitting from the programme first-hand.

Leon Patnett, Head of Youth Engagement & Training at ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ, said: “We are delighted to organise and host this event, bringing our valued partners together, giving them the opportunity to experience our JGW+ provision first-hand and meet our fantastic staff and learners.”

The JGW+ programme really does offer a valuable opportunity for our young people, some of who are facing significant challenges, to grow and develop, preparing them for their next steps in life. As we head into year two of the programme, we look forward to supporting many more young people in achieving their goals.

The Young Person’s Guarantee brings together a range of programmes and initiatives for young people that aim to enhance employability, enterprise, and skills provision to provide the right support, at the right time, for the diverse needs of young people across Wales.

The JGW+ programme performs a key role in this effort by providing young people aged 16-19 with training focused in three different areas – Engagement, for those beginning to think about a career, Advancement for those with an idea of where they’d like to be and Employment, for those looking to get into work asap – all of which is fully funded.

Economy Minister, Vaughan Gething MS, said following his meeting with those completing the programme at ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ: “Through our Young Person’s Guarantee, the Welsh Government is fully committed to investing in the lives of young people who need a helping hand to achieve their full potential.

“It is inspiring to hear how young people, particularly from disadvantaged backgrounds, are accessing support such as Jobs Growth Wales+ and with the help of our partners such as ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ and Careers Wales, are now looking positively towards their futures.”

“Through our National Conversation we will continue to engage and listen to young people as we shape the support we provide.,” he added.

Eighteen-year-old Jess Stiff is currently a JGW+ Advancement Level 1 Animal Care learner. She said of the programme: “I didn’t have a clue what to do when I left school and left and worked in retail and as a housekeeper but hated them both. Then I heard about ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ and Jobs Growth Wales+, the fact that I could work and learn at the same time.”

“I’m hopefully going to get a placement at a riding school which I am really looking forward to and I absolutely enjoy everything about what I’m doing now. It’s great.”

Nina De-Freitas left school two years ago and didn’t have a clue what to do next. Now 18 and having studied animal care with ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ for the past two years. Thanks to the programme now has a clear career path and starts a course at Pencoed College studying Animal Care Level 3 in September.

Nina said: “School wasn’t for me, I hated it, so it was great when I found ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ. The tutors treat you like an adult and the people I learn with are fab too.”

Long term, the Young Person’s Guarantee is designed to ensure 90% of 16 to 24-year-olds are in education, employment, or training (EET) by 2050, which is one of the Welsh Government’s National Milestones for improving the well-being of the people of Wales.

As part of this aim, JGW+ is open to anyone living in Wales aged 16-19 years old and not in full-time education, employment, or training as a flexible programme designed around the individual learner’s needs.

ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ offers comprehensive support to learners, including a weekly training allowance of up to £60, a daily meal allowance, and assistance with travel expenses. In addition, learners receive support in finding work, route-specific qualifications, and other resources to help them succeed.

Shannon is currently on the Advancement Strand of the Jobs Growth Wales+ (JGW+) Programme; a training and development programme for 16–19 year olds helping them acquire the skills, qualifications, and experience to get a job or get into further training. Understanding that no one person is the same, the JGW+ programme is entirely unique and tailored to suit the needs of the individual learner.

As well as preparing for the world of work, Shannon is also retaking her English and Maths qualifications, as part of her Essential Skills, while also seeking a work placement. With many different pathways open to her, Shannon is curious and keen to try everything.

I’m very open to anything at this stage. There’s lots of things I’m capable of doing so I’m keeping my options open. I’ve been learning so much with ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ. It’s really helping me develop and learn useful skills like understanding the job interview process. I created my CV with ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ and it’s been so helpful having the support and feedback about what employers want.

As well as learning valuable skills on JGW+, ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ also offer Enrichment Days for learners. These are designed to expose young people to unique environments and situations, in order to build confidence. Enrichment Days can range from learning animal care and food skills at Jamie’s Farm in Monmouth, to exciting day trips across South Wales.

“ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ is really exciting. It’s like a family here and it’s really easy to get stuff done and my tutors are very supportive.�� I’ve learnt how to communicate a lot better and I feel so much more confident going for a job interview and knowing what’s expected of me in the workplace.”

As a primary carer for her mother, Shannon finds the JGW+ programme very flexible towards her care commitments and enjoys learning valuable real-life skills in preparation for employment. Shannon also participated in the Barclay’s Life Skills programme, a course delivered in partnership with Business in the Community, which is designed to help young people learn about managing and balancing finances. Shannon feels ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ offers a unique learning experience for young people who are exploring their options.

“I’d definitely recommend ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ to other young people. I think it’s a great place to go for guidance and a good option if you don’t want to go down the traditional route of college.�� I suffer with social anxiety so it’s a case of managing that so I can keep moving forwards. I have a lot of support around me which is great. I’m not sure what I want to do next but I know there’s a lot I can do and I have a lot to offer.”

To find out more about JGW+ head here

WorldSkills supports young people across the world via competitions-based training, assessment and benchmarking, with members’ national teams ultimately testing their ability to achieve world-class standards in the biennial ‘skills olympics’. More than 500 young students and apprentices took part in finals in over 60 disciplines held at seven venues across the UK. The finals were announced on Friday 25 November 2022 at a live online ceremony hosted by Steph McGovern from her Channel 4 Packed Lunch Studio.

Kavan Cox, 19, is one of those people who just lights up the room when you talk to him. With a contagious, thunderous laugh and cheeky sense of humour, his welcoming presence immediately puts you at ease. It hasn’t always been this way for Kavan though. Sadly, his school experience left him withdrawn, anxious and doubting his capabilities.

“School was very difficult for me. I found teachers to be very authoritarian and there was a lot of bullying happening among students. A counsellor in school suggested I get in touch with ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ as they felt it would be a good fit for me. Learning and earning for me is a huge bonus, so when I realised I’d get paid for attending too, I was delighted.”

Kavan is currently studying Business Services on the Advancement Strand of the Jobs Growth Wales+ (JGW+) Programme; a training and development programme for 16–18 year olds helping them acquire the skills, qualifications, and experience to get a job or get into further training. Understanding that no one person is the same, the JGW+ programme is entirely unique and tailored to suit the needs of the individual learner.

In addition to learning valuable skills, ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ also deliver Enrichment Days for learners as part of the JGW+ programme. Enrichment Days are designed to expose young people to unique environments and situations, in order to build confidence.

“I love the Enrichment days! I’ll be honest, exercise isn’t usually my thing but I love animals and will give anything a go, so I especially loved our visit to Jamie’s Farm. I got a greater understanding of how people can work collaboratively and it was amazing to see how different peoples’ lives can be from my own. We also went to Barry recently and got involved with the beach clean-up which was great. We’ve been to Big Pit, St Fagan’s and we’ve even had a Sports Day at Ynys Hywel as well. We’re learning lots and have access to opportunities that we wouldn’t necessarily get to do at school.”

Despite being with ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ for just a year, the transformation Kavan has undergone is extraordinary. His confidence has soared leading him to challenge himself to compete in skills-based competitions. In addition to securing Silver at WorldSkills 2022, Kavan also secured Gold at the Skills Competition Wales 2021/2022 competition for his performance in the Customer Service Level Category. He credits his success to the confidence and skills he has gained since joining ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ.

My social and communication skills have developed massively since I started at ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ. It’s definitely made me much more socially aware. As part of JGW+ we learn lots about communication with customers. Everything from professional behaviour to how to direct customer attention to products. I’m learning really valuable skills for how to behave in the workplace.

Kavan is once again feeling excited about his future and the career opportunities available to him. He wasn’t sure what his prospects would be after leaving school, but now he hopes to work in a museum at some point and follow his passion for history. His year with ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ has made him realise, anything is possible!

“I was so nervous joining ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ at first, especially after my school experience, but since I’ve started the JGW+ programme I’m so much more confident. I feel like I’m back to my own self before I was bullied. I’ve become that cheery, ‘can do’ person again. ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ really is a safe space for young people to learn and grow.”

If you’re unsure of your next steps after school but like the idea of a unique learning experience tailored to your needs, then get in touch with our team today.

info@acttraining.org.uk
029 2270 7070

The 17-year-old said a trip there hugely boosted her confidence. The five-night stay was part of the Jobs Growth Wales+ (JGW+) programme, delivered by ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ, Wales’ leading training provider.

Having grown up “surrounded by pets”, she said her Level 1 Land Based Studies qualification, in the JGW+ programme, is “perfect” for her and her ambition to work with animals.

JGW+ is a training and development programme specifically for 16–18-year-olds looking for the skills, qualifications, and experience to find employment.

“When I first got to Jamie’s Farm I was very nervous,” she said. “I had just started my course, so I didn’t really know anyone. I was a bit homesick, but soon I really enjoyed it and I didn’t want to go home! I think this was because of meeting new people and making new friends – plus being around animals! There were cows, pigs, horses, sheep, chickens and more!”

Caitlin feels the residential trip to Jamie’s Farm, which provides farming therapy experiences to help young people thrive, had a transformative effect!

I’m definitely more confident with speaking to people now. I used to be very shy and didn’t want to talk to anyone. Now I’m happy to!

Staff at the farm were so impressed with Caitlin’s personal growth, they selected her for the role of Ambassador. Each Ambassador is chosen having demonstrated potential and shown exceptional��leadership skills. Jamie’s Farm runs five separate sites, including Monmouthshire, Bath and Hereford, and the young Ambassadors of each site meet regularly to share ideas.

Harley Clarke, Animal Care Tutor at ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ, said Caitlin has developed greatly since starting the JGW+ programme and she’s often selected as a mentor for new learners at ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ’s Cardiff Skills Academy, on Hadfield Road.

She explained: “During her five-night stay at Jamie’s Farm, Caitlin made new lifelong friends, developed her confidence and knew that working with animals was what she wanted to do.”

As part of her course, Caitlin has also been working at Walnut Tree Farm Park, outside Newport, where she answers customer questions about the farm’s many horses, cows, sheep and even alpacas.

Caitlin thoroughly recommends ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ and the JGW+ programme to anyone who is unsure of their options after school, especially if they’re interested in animals.

“Young people should definitely try JGW+ programme, especially if they like working with animals. It will help you become more confident with others, as you have to work in a group. Before the course, I was very shy and didn’t really want to talk to anyone, but now I’m a lot more confident with speaking to all different people!”

To find out more about Jobs Growth Wales+ and other opportunities available at ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ, click��here.

The 29-year-old Caerphilly native learned his skills at the leading training provider, which has a centre on the town’s Market Street, plus many more across South Wales.

Along with partner Jack Pullin, he founded dog-grooming service in 2018, and they have just opened a new premises in Bedwas.

Gareth used his own training to get where he is today, so he wants to help others in Caerphilly enter the unusual industry of preening pooches! He’ll take on Animal Care Learners from ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ on placements at Pupperazi this year, providing valuable work experience for a popular profession.

He said: “We‘ll be giving young people the opportunity to work with us in our busy salon, to help them learn new things and give them the chance to work with animals. We’ll also be helping the young people learn about business.”

Gareth has just returned from the world’s most-prestigious dog show, Crufts, and those he guides on placements at Pupperazi will learn how to present pets for any podium!

At the new Pupperazi shop at Unit 8/9 Afon Court, Bedwas, customers can have their dog expertly groomed, while a wide selection of pet toys and RAW Supplies treats are also on sale.

ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ is the place to help young people go somewhere in life. Also, Pupperazi will teach them skills in-house, to support their love of animals. ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ is passionate about helping young people get the jobs they want and the skills needed to secure these jobs.

The original Pupperazi store was in Mountain Ash. Now, this young entrepreneur is happy to keep jobs and training in the Caerphilly area, so the town he loves can continue to thrive.

He added: “Being based in Caerphilly is amazing as I’m from Caerphilly and we can bring the best to the Caerphilly town.”

Lewis Bowden, Programme Manager at ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ, added: “I’m really pleased that Gareth is now giving back to our learners, by providing them with such a fulfilling and beneficial work placement opportunity.”

If you’re 16-18 yrs and interested in working with animals, visit our�� JGW+ page

If you’re passionate about animals and agriculture, a career in this sector will reward you with doing something you love every day. From animal charities to veterinary practices, zoos to national parks, there are a huge range of jobs to explore where you can make a difference with a caring, hands-on role.

Judges named her a gold-medal winner, after her engaging presentation on vital diet changes. The bright 18-year-old delivered a healthy-eating talk, aimed at someone recovering from a stroke. She explained how a better diet could prevent it from happening again, for the contest, held remotely, on Friday November 19. She’s the first ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ learner to win a medal at WorldSkills UK!

On winning this award, Alisha said:

I am very happy and proud of myself for winning and I would like to give a massive thank you to Kath, Jon, my family and the members of staff at ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ for encouraging and helping me with the competition.

Earlier in the year, Alisha was presented with another amazing gold medal, from Skills Competition Wales, for her impressive educational storyboards, based on the popular children’s book, The Gruffalo.

She brought Julia Donaldson’s much-loved modern fairytale to life, with craftily-decorated pieces of card and painted wooden spoons. The display explained the story of the Mouse, Snake, Fox and Owl characters, and the important lessons they learned, by encountering the titular Gruffalo.

Alisha, who loved The Gruffalo book all her life, was overjoyed to win! She said:

When I found out I won the Skills Competition Wales, I was extremely surprised and proud of myself! It is an amazing accomplishment.

The animal lover, from New Tredegar, Caerphilly, is currently studying Level 1 Childcare with ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ. She discovered ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ through a family member, who helped her find a course to help reach her career goal of working as an early childhood educator or childcare worker, in a primary school or nursery.

She said ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ tutors have been an incredible support and massively boosted her confidence. Every time I am struggling with a piece of work or an activity they will always help me,” she explained. “Not only this, but they assure you that you are able to do things that you feel like you are not able to do and that you are capable of anything you set your mind to.

She added: “I have developed many skills in ӣ�Ҹ�����Ƶ that will benefit me in the future. I have learned how to work independently and in a team. They have helped me with my communication skills and have built up my confidence massively. One of the skills I’ve learned is problem solving and with the career I want to do, there will be many times you will have to think on the spot and come up with a solution, so this skill will benefit me massively in the future and help me be more employable.”

She further learned how to bathe a baby correctly, change nappies and do bottles – all important for working in childcare. She’s now putting her skills into practice at First Steps Daycare in Aberbargoed, where she’s enjoying a placement.

If Alisha’s story has inspired you to follow a career in Childcare, find out more about our Level 1 Care qualification here, or get in touch to find out more!