The coffee shop, located within Ringland Community Centre, is run entirely by Newport Youth Academy students who are undertaking qualifications through the Jobs Growth Wales + scheme.

The programme offers teens aged 16 to 19 the chance to hone their professional skills, by gaining qualifications that will ready them for the world of work and beyond. Within the café, learners can practice their catering and hospitality skills, earn food safety qualifications and gain experience preparing food on a large scale as they are often involved in catering for community events.

Rhion Hollister, Delivery Manager at Newport Youth Academy, said:��“Intel from local labour market and sector growth in Hospitality and Catering helped us shape the provision. ��We saw sustainable employment opportunities in Newport and with this in mind we needed to create a live environment where students could try and test their skills in-house before going on a work placement.”

As the café is only open to staff, students and some clients, it has become a valuable stepping stone for learners looking to branch out into the busy environment of the hospitality sector, allowing them to experience the hustle and bustle of a busy café without some of the pressures of a chain store or larger operation.

“We were also discussing ideas on how we can improve learner confidence and life skills,” Rhion added.

“Dealing with customer and cooking low-cost meals have contributed to the improved health and wellbeing of the students who work in the café but also those who have free hot drinks and meals.”

Not only are learners responsible for the day-to-day running of the café, which is open three days a week, some were also integral to its conception, helping to set up the space as well as train new students who wanted to learn how to make different hot drinks. For many, their time working in the café has ignited a passion for the hospitality sector and they are now looking to pursue a job in that field.

“The café is here to stay,” Rhion said. “Definitely the most rewarding aspect of it is seeing the students getting invaluable work experience in a controlled environment as well as all the students having a hot meal and drink daily.”

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 �ڽ�����.” 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 �ڽ�����. “�ڽ����� 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 �ڽ����� 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 �ڽ����� as a whole.

“I’ve seen how �ڽ����� 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 �ڽ�����. It really clicked with me because I’m a practical learner who thrives on-the-job.”��

What made �ڽ����� stand out wasn’t just its practical approach, but also the sense of independence it fostered. “I loved that �ڽ����� 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 �ڽ�����’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 �ڽ�����, 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 �ڽ�����, 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 �ڽ�����. “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 �ڽ�����, the thought of enrolling had never crossed her mind. But after touring the centre, she was intrigued.����

“I hadn’t even heard of �ڽ����� 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 �ڽ����� 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 �ڽ����� 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 �ڽ����� 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 �ڽ����� 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.”��

This cutting-edge facility, located within Cardiff’s Ocean Park House, includes a fully equipped hair studio, a dedicated nail and beauty treatment studio, and multiple classrooms. Together, these spaces are designed to create a real-life salon environment where learners can refine their skills and prepare for successful careers in the industry.��

The H&B Academy recently celebrated its soft launch with a festive gathering of partners and local businesses from related fields. The event offered attendees a sneak peek at the Academy’s facilities and a chance to witness its vision in action. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, setting a promising tone for its official opening.��

To delve deeper into what makes the Hair & Beauty Academy unique, we spoke with Charlotte Sims, the salon’s Delivery Manager, about the vision, goals, and impact of this transformative initiative.��

The Hair and Beauty Academy is a vital part of the JGW+ skills centre. Learners enrolled in hair, beauty and barbering courses through JGW+ will have access to high-quality, industry-standard salons where they can gain experience and insight not only from their tutors but also their peers. Apprenticeship learners, who are further along in their professional journey, will also benefit from fortnightly workshops with their assessors.��

Charlotte emphasised the importance of working in a salon setting for building both confidence and competence: “Our learners start on Entry Level and Level 1 courses,” she said. “Beginning their training in a professional salon environment helps them develop practical skills and theoretical knowledge, making them work-ready.����

“They practice everything from shampooing and blow-drying to nails, facials, makeup, and more. As they progress to salon placements, we work closely with their employers to ensure their training is tailored to meet the needs of the business.”��

What sets the H&B Academy apart is its personable approach to training. The focus is not only on technical skills but also on employability and personal development. “We’ve created a welcoming, supportive environment where learners can relax, make new friends, and build their confidence,” Charlotte explained. “We also emphasise the importance of health and wellbeing, as this directly impacts their success in the workplace.”��

The H&B Academy’s robust support system includes World of Work advisors, learner coaches, counselling services, and Essential Skills development tutors to ensure the underpinning of basic skills like numeracy, communication and digital literacy. These resources ensure that learners are not only developing their craft but also gaining the tools to thrive professionally and personally.��

While the practical setting provides invaluable experience, it also presents challenges. According to Charlotte, building confidence among learners is one of the most significant hurdles: “Sometimes, learners are hesitant to practice their skills on one another,” she said.

“Our tutors play a crucial role in guiding and encouraging them every step of the way.”��

However, the rewards far outweigh the challenges. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to see learners grow and excel,” Charlotte said. “Many of our students come to us after struggling in traditional academic settings. By tapping into their creativity and providing hands-on learning opportunities, we’re often able to unlock their potential. Some have even gone on to own their own salons, barbershops, and beauty businesses.”��

Despite only launching this month, the H&B Academy has ambitious goals for the coming year. It aims to expand its cohort of learners and deepen partnerships with local salons to provide more placement opportunities.����

“We want to work closely with employers to ensure our training aligns with their needs. By doing so, we’re not only supporting our learners but also contributing to the success of local businesses,” Charlotte explained.��

The H&B Academy is also keen to find new talent. For those considering a career in hair and beauty, Charlotte’s advice is simple. She said: “If you’re passionate about this field, don’t be afraid of hard work. Every task you do, no matter how small, contributes to building your future. From arranging product displays to making clients a cup of tea, these moments teach you valuable people skills and business acumen. Most importantly, have fun. Happy, friendly professionals are what clients want to see, so let your passion shine through in everything you do.”��

If you would like to learn more about JGW+ or if you’re an employer looking to offer a placement to a future stylist or beautician, contact us.

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.

No two learners are the same and so what inspires one may not resonate with another, which means providers have a duty to offer an array of different methods and experiences that engage learners beyond the confines of a workplace or classroom.

Whether someone prefers to talk things out face-to-face, listen to a podcast or be given detailed reading material, understanding that each person processes information differently is key.

At �ڽ�����, we are constantly monitoring our delivery and listening to learner feedback to find more innovative and creative ways to share knowledge and boost skills.

Here are a few of the ways �ڽ����� is helping to engage learners in different ways.

For trainee assessors and delivery staff, �ڽ�����’s curriculum developer, Kameron Harrhy, recently played host to

The series was created alongside �ڽ�����’s Education and Development apprenticeships team and is designed to guide new assessors through their qualification. It also serves as a refresher for existing delivery staff to brush up on their skills and knowledge.

Within our Jobs Growth Wales + programmes, we ensure that what is being taught by our tutors can be shown in practical, real-world settings with learners having the opportunities to put the knowledge they’ve gained to the test.

We have recently set up fortnightly workshops in some subjects, such as hairdressing. The workshops give learners the chance to work alongside tutors to hone their skills in a more practical setting. It is a great space to ask questions, practice new methods and receive validation for the skills they have already gained. For hairdressing students in particular, it’s a much-needed stepping stone between work done in theory and the busy expectations of work in a salon placement.

For JGW+ and �ڽ����� Schools learners, enrichment is a huge part of their curriculum. Enrichment can take the shape of cultural trips, leisure visits, volunteer days or even driving lessons.

While these opportunities on their own are exciting, we have developed our own Enrichment Resource to ensure that learners not only get a fun experience from their day out but also gain new skills and make the most of what they’ve learned.

The resource offers learners an interactive webpage filled with prompts relating to the type of trip they are going on. It allows learners to scroll through a number of ‘icebreaker’ activities, discussion cues, research notes, videos, activities and a few points to aid reflection of the day.

The last few years have shifted online learning from a ‘nice to have’ to an essential offering for work-based learning providers.

At �ڽ�����, we have invested in a hybrid delivery digital suite to enhance online learning from a lesson delivered through a webcam to an interactive virtual classroom experience.

Our digital suite has a tracking camera to allow tutors or speakers to walk around the room and demonstrate throughout their teaching. There is also fully immersive audio equipment to ensure those tuning in remotely have the same experience as those who attend a class in person; learners are able to hear their peers and engage in conversations with ease.

�ڽ����� is committed to improving lives through learning and a crucial part of this ethos is understanding that every individual has their own unique ways of learning. We are continuing to develop more engaging and interactive ways to help our learners achieve their personal and professional goals.

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?’

1. Engagement

A starting point for young people who aren’t sure of what they’re interested in. This strand offers short work trials, centre based learning and a variety of enrichment opportunities.

2. Advancement

Developed for young people who have an interest in a particular career. This strand offers industry focused work tasters and placements, a Level 1 qualification and a variety of enrichment opportunities.

3. Employment

For young people who are ready for full-time employment. This strand offers employability sessions, job preparation skills, interview technique training, essential skills qualification and enrichment activities.

Joel Wilson began studying IT through��Jobs Growth Wales +��– a programme designed to help 16- to 19-year-olds get ready for the world of work. He initially began studying with �ڽ����� to get more experience in the field of IT. He had also heard that the Engagement strand of the programme offered work placements.

Joel attended a talk given at �ڽ�����’s headquarters, Ocean Park House, where Principality Building Society spoke about the different digital opportunities they have within the company.

Joel expressed an interest in applying for a role with them and he, along with three other IT learners, attended an interview in the following weeks.

Joel was successful, securing a 12-month placement with Principality in partnership with �ڽ�����’s sister company,��ALS, as a Junior IT Analyst.

His role will involve helping fix computer problems for staff members and customers.

Of his time with JGW+, Joel said: “My favourite part of studying IT has been exploring different applications. I wanted to be more confident in myself and I’ve improved my ICT skills. I can now create better PowerPoints, animations and posters using apps like PowToon and Canva.”

The Jobs Growth Wales+ programme is all about confidence building, not just within a learner’s chosen field but in developing personal and professional skills. Learners are encouraged to study topics such as mental and sexual health and hone key skills in numeracy and literacy.

IT and Business Skills Tutor Matthew Hillier said: “Joel has been a pleasure to have in IT at �ڽ�����.�� From the outset, he demonstrated dedication to his studies, showing a genuine passion for IT and a keen interest in understanding the complexities of the field.

“I wish Joel the very best in his all of his future endeavours and I am confident his ambition will guide him into a very promising and rewarding career.”

At �ڽ����� we know that undertaking a new course of education, at any level, can be a daunting task, but we offer support to ensure you feel confident and comfortable as you get started.��

Childcare learner, Jasmine Warner, came to our Aberdare Skills centre earlier this year through our Get Ready programme (an initiative designed to ease new learners into a course before they commit to Jobs Growth Wales +).��

Initially, Jasmine was very anxious, having not had a great experience at school and having left education with no formal qualifications. Jasmine thought that �ڽ����� may have more patience and a smaller, quieter class to settle her in. She signed up in the hope of gaining some qualifications and work experience. Jasmine’s dream job was to work with children, but she was unsure if this would ever become a reality.��

Jasmine struggled with her confidence for the first few weeks, something that was quickly picked up by her tutors who then ensured regular check-ins to monitor her progress and assist her in building her confidence and relationships with her peers.����

With time and support Jasmine came into her own and quickly progressed in the programme, moving into a main classroom with a skills tutor by the end of her stint with Get Ready.��

Jasmine pushed herself, progressing a few weeks later to the Advancement strand of her programme and securing a work placement in her dream role within a primary school.����

Talking of Jasmine’s success, Becky Jones, �ڽ�����’s Jobs Growth Wales + Learning Coach, said: “Jasmine has done so well and it is a pleasure to her have in class and in centre. Feedback from placement has also been very positive.”��

Jasmine said: “When I first started at �ڽ����� I was not very confident in myself. However, with the help of the staff, my confidence increased. I feel that I’m a happier person now compared to when I started. This is because of the help that I received from the staff at �ڽ����� and the fact that they believed in me and didn’t let me give up.”��

Lucy Davies is a Jobs Growth Wales + learner from Aberdare. She came to �ڽ����� through the organisations��Get Ready programme, which is aimed at learners who need a quieter space to begin learning, as well as some additional wellbeing support.

Lucy, who has hearing difficulties, did not have a good experience while at school and sometimes felt overlooked. Lucy has been partially deaf since birth, which has impacted on her time in education.

When she started in �ڽ�����, Lucy was a quiet member of the class and needed encouragement to join in and take part in the day-to-day activities. But, over time, she was able to come into the centre with confidence and began showing her personality and developing her learning style.

Lucy’s tutor, Becky Jones, said:

“Lucy has since gone from strength to strength. She had a new hearing aid a few months ago and this has helped her to move forward, make friends and enjoy all the activities on offer.

“Lucy has moved onto the engagement strand of the programme after successfully completing Get Ready and is about to start work placement in a dog groomers, which she is very excited about. Lucy is an animal lover and has many pets at home so she will be a natural in the placement.”

Reflecting on her journey so far, Lucy added: “I have really enjoyed my time here in �ڽ�����, and I have received lots of support which I have never had before, especially from Becky my tutor.

“�ڽ����� has helped me build up my skills and confidence, which has helped me with my everyday life so much. Making new friends has made my days in �ڽ����� even better, and I am very grateful to everyone in centre.

“I would never have achieved half of the things that I have without their love and support.”