The��annual��awards, which launched last year,��celebrate��learners,��tutors,��employers��and businesses��who have helped promote work-based learning across Wales.����

The awards were created to recognise the importance of apprenticeships and work-based learning, not just as a valid education and career pathway��for individuals��but as an operational��tool for employers.����

The event, which��comprised��a total of 14 award categories, was hosted by multi-award-winning journalist, Will Hayward.����

Among those recognised were apprenticeship learners, learners from the Welsh Government’s 16-to-19 programme Jobs Growth Wales, as well as pupils at �ڽ�����’s��independent��Schools provision.����

Employers were recognised for their contribution��to��upskilling internally, as well as offering placements to learners at the start of their career journey. There was also a special ‘Valued Partner’ award for organisations who have offered their time and resources to��provide enrichment days for young learners on the Jobs Growth Wales + programme.��

Speaking��at��the event��was��Strategic Director��for��the National Training Federation for Wales, Lisa��Mytton, who had also acted as an independent judge for the��awards’��nominations.��

During her speech, Lisa impressed the importance of work-based learning not just for individuals but for the economic health of Wales, she said:

“Events like��this��shine��a light on what really drives Wales forward – the talent,��commitment and ambition of our learners, employers, and training��providers.����

“Apprenticeships are central to that progress. They give people the��chance to build real careers, they give employers the skilled workforce��they��need,��and they strengthen the Welsh economy from the ground��up. When we invest in apprenticeships, we invest in��Wales’��future.”��

The full list of Success Through Skills 2026 winners:��

Essential Skills��Learner of the Year
Bronze��– Christine Beale
Silver��– Lowri Evans
Gold – Ifeoluwa Anipupo

Jobs Growth Wales+ Engagement��Learner of the Year��

Highly��Commended – Sean Murphy
Bronze – Jack Jones
Silver – Logan Harrison
Gold – Courtney Ali ��

Jobs Growth Wales+ Advancement��Learner of the Year
Highly Commended��– Tia Montanari
Highly Commended – Gwen Jenkins
Bronze – Kia Richards
Silver – Jessica Waite
Gold – Logan Langmead

Jobs Growth Wales+��Employers��of the Year
Bron Afon
Little Inspirations Nurseries

Valued Partners
Jenna Murphy Art
Down to Earth

Foundation Apprentice of the Year
Highly Commended – David Boyle
Bronze – Millie Evans
Silver – Lisa Isgrove
Gold – Olivia��Ampleford������

Apprentice of the Year
Highly Commended – Lauren Gunning
Bronze – Michelle Mclachlan
Silver – Poppy Wright
Gold – Maddy Groves����

Higher Apprentice of the Year��

Bronze – Kelly Beaumont
Silver – Darren Sweeney
Gold – Jess Poole����

Small Employers��of the Year��

Atkins Accountancy
MS Group����

Medium Employers��of the Year
Midway Transitional Solutions
Welsh Rugby Union

Large Employers��of the Year
Innovate Trust
Legal and General��

Professional Development��Employers��of the Year
The Royal Mint
Aneurin Bevan University Health Board

New Employer Partners��of the Year
Eden Nursery
Admiral Group
Sacyr��

The FinTech Wales Community Academy��will offer paid, hands-on workplace experience for learners aged 18 to 19��who are not currently in full-time education, employment, or training. Through funding provided by the Jobs Growth Wales+ programme, participants will have the opportunity to earn a nationally-recognised qualification��while completing placements with some of Wales’ most recognisable fintech organisations, including Monmouthshire Building Society, Hodge Bank, Creditsafe, and Final Rentals.

Designed to address skills shortages and broaden access to high-growth careers, the academy delivers training through �ڽ����� Training. Learners will work towards an Agored Award in Digital Skills for Business Level 2, developing practical skills in:

• Data management

• Digital collaboration tools

• Online security

• Professional communication

Speaking about the launch of the academy,��Rhys Griffiths, Head of Skills at FinTech Wales, said:

“We are thrilled to launch the FinTech Wales Community Academy. This programme has been shaped by employers coming together to collaboratively tackle skills challenges within the sector. By investing in people, we’re not only creating valuable career pathways for young people but also strengthening the future of fintech in Wales. This is about collaboration, shared ambition and building a sustainable talent pipeline for the industry.”

Having recently completed its own community academy,��Monmouthshire Building Society��is excited to be part of the programme.��Kristy Maloney, Head of Savings, said:

“We’ve seen first-hand the positive impact of providing an opportunity to explore a new career – it’s exciting for the participants and for us as an organisation. Through working in collaboration with FinTech Wales, Hodge Bank, Final Rentals and Creditsafe, we’re able to continue making a difference and build the talent pipeline here in Wales. We can’t wait to meet the potential stars of the future.”

Lucy Wilkinson, Digital Services Route Manager at �ڽ����� Training, added:

“We’re proud to offer a programme where learners not only gain hands-on experience across the fintech sector but also achieve a recognised digital skills qualification along the way. Being part of Jobs Growth Wales+ allows learners to hone their numeracy, literacy and employability skills, all while receiving support and guidance from experienced tutors. They will also get the chance to work with different organisations, make new connections and get a taste for the world of work. At the end of it, our learners will leave ready to take their next step with a qualification that opens doors for them.”

Those interested in applying can find full details and application information here.

Thousands of learners every year find themselves in a similar position. The good news is there are alternative pathways that can offer more flexibility, practical learning and hands-on experience.

One such option is Jobs Growth Wales + (JGW+), a training and development programme for 16- to 19-year-olds, delivered by leading training provider �ڽ�����.

JGW+ helps young people build confidence, gain qualifications and develop skills that prepare them for an apprenticeship, employment or even starting their own business.

The programme is designed to suit learners at different stages:

• Engagement is a starting point for those who are unsure of their next step and need extra guidance or confidence-building.

• Advancement supports learners with a clearer idea of their career interests, helping them gain sector-specific skills.

• Employment helps young people move straight into the world of work, with real-life placements supported by training and learning.

If you’re unsure of your post-16 journey, the Advancement or Engagement routes can provide exactly what’s needed – a fresh start in a supportive environment.

For former JGW+ learner, Ethan Smith, this support, particularly when he his career path was uncertain, helped him stay motivated.

“I started with JGW+ in 2023. At first, I thought I wanted to go into childcare,” he explained. “But JGW+ and �ڽ����� have supported me through every twist and turn. They helped me discover the career I didn’t know was meant for me.”

After exploring different routes, including retail, it was a simple suggestion from his tutor, Kayleigh Carter, that changed everything. “I suggested he try out hairdressing,” she said. “From day one, it just clicked for him. He’s thrown himself into it ever since and has really found his spark, hairdressing suits him perfectly.”

Ethan says the hands-on elements of the JGW+ programme were what drew him in.

“As a learner, I loved the practical side. It gave me a real insight into what it would be like to be a hairdresser. The theory was explained well too, it made everything easier to understand.”

You can read Ethan’s journey in full��– from first day to job placement – here.

If��you’re unsure about your post-16 path, remember, there are plenty of options out there and it’s okay to change things up to find your perfect fit. With Jobs Growth Wales +, you can reset, refocus and move towards a future that works for you.

Find out whether Jobs Growth Wales + is the perfect fit for you here.

The event, which took place at Ocean Park House in Cardiff, welcomed special guest Jonathan ‘Jiffy’ Davies to discuss all things rugby.

The intimate Q&A session was hosted by BusinessIn Wales editor Daniel Bevan, and allowed business representatives to grill the rugby legend on the latest news and developments in the sport.

While rugby remained the focus of the morning, Jiffy opened discussions with a reflection on his own apprenticeship journey.

Jiffy described his apprenticeship placement as ‘the start of working life’ and shared that ‘without it, I don’t know what would have happened to me’.

He went on to explain that an important aspect of his apprenticeship placement was the social skills it gave him. “It was a leap of faith from school into the world of work, but it taught me how to better communicate and to not be frightened.”

Jiffy ended discussions by imparting his wisdom.

The event was also the official launch of �ڽ�����’s Employer Pledge.

The pledge was created in direct response to Wales’ NEET (not in education, employment or training) statistic which currently sits at 12% for 16- to 24-year-olds.

Through the pledge, organisations can commit to offering job placements and work experience to 16 to19-year-olds from its Jobs Growth Wales+ programme.

For employers, it’s a cost-free way to discover new talent, reduce recruitment overheads, and build a pipeline of future employees. It is also a way of providing potentially life-changing experience for young talent who may otherwise be overlooked.

Director at �ڽ����� and ALS, Helen Williams, said: “There is a great need for support from employers. This can be in the form of work experience taster sessions, placements, giving talks about your industry or even offering coaching sessions to help young people get ready for interviews.

“Businesses can help mould the future workforce in Wales, not just for the benefit of their operations and the individual learner, but for the health and prosperity of the Welsh economy.”

You can find more about the Employer Pledge here.

“Growing up, I experienced a lot of challenges — from witnessing death and drug misuse to becoming a teenage mother myself,” she said. “These experiences shaped who I am and sparked a deep desire to understand the events, triggers, and underlying factors that influence young people’s behaviours.

“Learning gave me clarity, purpose, and healing. I wanted to resonate with young people, not just on a professional level, but through shared lived experience. [I am] proof that, regardless of how life begins, it’s possible to overcome obstacles and accomplish positive things.”

This perspective continues to be at the heart of Kellie’s work, where she supports learners facing similar barriers. During her time at �ڽ�����, Kellie has seen first-hand the impact of simply being present for young people.

“Just being present can make a massive difference. Many of the learners I support are dealing with more than just poor attendance, they’re often struggling with complex personal issues, mental health challenges, financial issues or unstable home environments.”

As well as a connection through similar experiences, Kellie credits her academic studies with helping her see beyond learners’ surface-level behaviours and helping her develop a reflective and compassionate approach.

“Behaviour is often communication,” she added. “When we take time to understand the root causes, we can support change rather than just manage symptoms.”

In her role as an Attendance Officer, and now a Learning Coach, she has learned the value of relational work, building trust with learners by being empathetic.

“Even though my role is primarily as an Attendance Officer, many of [the learners] see me as much more than that. I’ve built relationships based on trust, consistency, and mutual respect. I’m proud to be seen as someone who makes a positive difference in their day.”

Off the back of her academic achievements, Kellie has recently been offered the opportunity to travel to the Ivory Coast on a scholarship, where she will work with children, young people, and families across education centres and youth facilities.

“It’s a chance to see how communities in a completely different cultural and social context support their young people and families,” she explained. “I also hope to share some of what I’ve learned through my own studies and lived experiences – not as an expert, but as someone who genuinely cares.”

Though short-term, the opportunity offers Kellie a chance to grow in cultural understanding and bring back new insights to her work in Wales.

“Understanding a new culture in depth will help me develop greater cultural awareness and sensitivity – both of which are vital when working in inclusive, youth-focused environments like �ڽ�����,” she said.

Despite the exciting international journey ahead, Kellie is committed to her work at �ڽ�����.

“Ultimately, my goal is simple: I want to be someone the young people remember,” she added. “Not just as an Attendance Officer, but as someone who truly listened, cared, and helped them believe in themselves.”

Whether your child gets the grades they hoped for or not, there are things you can do to support them at such a pivotal moment in their educational journey.

At �ڽ�����, we’ve worked with thousands of young people as they navigate through this time and, contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to have all the answers. We’ve put together a few practical ways parents can help.

Keep talk positive and open

GCSE results seem like the be-all and end-all at the time, but they don’t define your child – and that’s something you may need to be reminded of as well as your child. GCSEs are just one milestone on a much bigger journey.

Whether the results are better or worse than expected, keeping calm and positive is important.

Focus on your child’s strengths, interests, and the opportunities ahead, rather than dwelling on disappointments. Let them know that you’re proud of their effort and that you’ll support them no matter what.

Explore options together

Many young people aren’t aware that sixth form or college aren’t the only options. It’s important that they know all the different pathways available to them and the opportunities that will play to their strengths. One option is Jobs Growth Wales+, a Welsh Government training and development programme for 16–19-year-olds. JGW+ can help hone numeracy, literacy, and employability skills while also helping young people progress in their chosen field.

For teens who want a bit more freedom from and a more practical, career-focused route, Jobs Growth Wales+ can be a great option – even if they haven’t chosen a particular career pathway yet.�� JGW+ can help boost confidence and life skills, as well as offer support for wellbeing and mentorship.

Tap into some insider knowledge

While exploration of different options is positive and insightful, it can also be nerve-wracking and, likely, quite overwhelming. If your teen is experiencing information overload, encourage them to speak with a careers adviser or to attend open days at training providers or colleges.

No one knows a programme as well as the staff that live and breathe it every day, as such they are a great source of information. If your child feels uncomfortable asking questions, attend a meeting or open day with them and compile a list of questions beforehand that you can chip in and ask if they’re feeling shy.

Sometimes simply talking through a lot of information can make things less overwhelming. Ask your teen if they would like to go over their options with you, and put together a list of the pros and cons of each option.

Avoid comparisons and promote individuality

As with many aspects of modern-day life, the pressure of comparison looms large during GCSE results day. Your teen will likely compare themselves to others – to their friends, their peers or even to random people on the news or social media.

If their results are vastly different to others it is natural that they will feel left out, especially if their results mean that they can’t follow the same path as their mates, or that their plans to ‘stick together’ after GCSEs have been disrupted.

Understandably, there is a strong sense of comfort and security from friends and this change can cause added stress and emotional upheaval. Remind your teen that it’s okay to explore different options. Stepping out of their comfort zones can unlock new, undiscovered pathways and their friends will still be there for them even if they are pursuing different options.

They’re independent but you shouldn’t disengage

Regardless of outcome, GCSE results day is a pivotal turning point when your child will start making more and more independent choices about their future. Encourage that independence but stay engaged and informed. Help them with applications, offer to visit training providers and colleges with them, and keep checking in emotionally. If they seem ungrateful for your input don’t be offended, this is a stressful time for them and emotions are high. Even if they don’t show it, your support and encouragement are appreciated.

�ڽ����� will be bringing their Jobs Growth Wales+ programme to the heart of the city, parking up a trailer at The Hayes (near the Cosy Club entrance) from 9am to 4pm.

The trailer will be packed with information and activities designed to support and inspire young people on their career journey. Passersby can even try their hand at live paediatric and canine first aid demonstrations.

�ڽ����� staff will be on hand on the day to talk about their wide range of training and employment opportunities. A special focus will be placed on the Jobs Growth Wales+ (JGW+) programme,

which helps young people aged 16–19 develop skills, gain qualifications, and move into work, apprenticeships or further learning.

Visitors can find out more about JGW+ pathways including a new digital offer, where learners can explore areas such as web development, graphic design and gaming.

They can also learn about a new specialist Construction Core Level 2 qualification being introduced in September, where learners will attend the centre in Cardiff one day per week and spend the remaining four days on work placement. The course is fully funded through JGW+, and learners will receive attendance payments, a meal allowance and travel reimbursement.

Head of Youth Engagement & Training at Jobs Growth Wales+, Leon Patnett, said: “We know GCSE Results Day can be a big moment for young people. We’re here to help celebrate achievements and offer guidance for the future, and what better way than to bring the advice directly to the city centre in a fun, friendly way.”

Here in Wales, the Welsh Government’s Young Person’s Guarantee is a much-needed commitment to our 16–24-year-olds, ensuring young adults have access to support, education, training and employment. But its success depends largely on us – the businesses of Wales.

At �ڽ�����, we’re calling on businesses to step up and join our a commitment to support Jobs Growth Wales + learners, aged 16 to 19, through work placements or early career opportunities. It’s a simple but powerful action that can shape a young person’s future and strengthen your business at the same time.

This isn’t just about doing the right thing, it’s about doing something proactive for your organisation’s output. Our experience working with thousands of employers across Wales has shown that young people bring energy, fresh thinking, and long-term potential to the workplace. They ask questions, offer new perspectives, and often challenge us when we’re set in our ways.

Crucially, through �ڽ�����’s Employer Pledge, there’s no cost to you for taking on a learner. We cover the learner’s allowance while you benefit from a motivated individual eager to learn and contribute. What’s more, our dedicated team supports you every step of the way to ensure the process is seamless for both parties.

Of course, there’s also a moral imperative here. For many young people, especially those who are often overlooked for opportunities or who haven’t thrived in traditional education, a placement can be life changing. It offers a foot in the door, a boost to their confidence, and a glimpse of what their future could be in a sector they’re passionate about. As employers, we have the ability – and I would say, the responsibility – to create those opportunities.

Captiva Spa in Caerphilly is one business who has committed to supporting young people. They’ve taken on learners who have not only become valuable team members during their placements but have gone on to become long-term employees and even managers. Likewise, Cardiff-based finance company Ramsay & White��have welcomed two Jobs Growth Wales+ learners as permanent staff after watching them flourish on placement. These are not one-off success stories, they’re examples of what happens when businesses invest in potential.

Supporting the Young Person’s Guarantee through �ڽ�����’s Employer Pledge isn’t about ticking a box. It’s about changing lives through building a talent pipeline, supporting the local community, and shaping the kind of workforce we all want to see – skilled, engaged, and future-proof.

To those still on the fence, I say don’t underestimate what a young person can bring to your team. Yes, they might need guidance but with the right mentoring they often surprise us with their initiative, drive, and ideas.

At �ڽ�����, our purpose is ‘improving lives through learning’ but we can’t do it alone. We need businesses across Wales to get behind the pledge and help support our future workforce to thrive.

Find out more about the Employer Pledge and how your business can get involved here.

Nathan Emary has been studying IT, alongside Essential Skills, and was drawn to the JGW+ pathway after finishing school as it offered him work experience and a chance to earn money. This was particularly of interest to Nathan who was building a PC at the time and wanted to gain some additional IT skills as well as funds to be able to finance the project.

“The atmosphere [within JGW+] is like no other,” he said. “I get along with all the learners there and the class is very welcoming. My tutor Matt is the best, I’ve never clicked with anyone in the role like him and the way he lets everyone learn at their own pace is very refreshing – it definitely allows me to fully take in anything he is teaching.

“He will also be happy to go over anything with me personally and is always available for a general chat even with teaching multiple students at once.”

Nathan will now be heading to Legal and General and undertaking a foundation apprentice in Customer Services and Providing Financial Services with����He will be responsible for checking and processing documents.

“My time at �ڽ����� has definitely helped me with the hybrid work environment I will have at Legal and General as we are virtual 2-3 days a week.

“[In terms of skills gained at �ڽ�����] communication and collaboration are key and these have helped me significantly.”

Despite just landing the role, Nathan is keen to not rest on his laurels and has big aspirations for his future career.

“In the long term I would like to be in charge of my own company. I want to move up in Legal and General, gaining the most experience and qualifications, and hopefully moving to a managing position. I eventually want to start my own business involving smart technology.”

Matthew Hillier, Nathan’s IT tutor at �ڽ�����, said: “Nathan has been an absolute pleasure to have in IT on JGW+. Supporting Nathan to grow and develop through the course has been a privilege and I am inspired by of all of the progress he has made and the challenges he has overcome.

“Nathan has now secured an amazing opportunity with Legal & General, which I am confident he will excel in and prove to be a strong asset to the company. I am enormously proud of Nathan and wish him all of the very best with his future.”

If you are 16 to 19 years old and would like to learn more about Jobs Growth Wales + you can find further details and courses��here.