The dedication and success of more than 100 apprentices from across Wales were honoured recently at a special graduation ceremony held in Mid Wales. The event, organised by Welshpool-based work-based learning provider Cambrian Training Company, took place in Llanelwedd.
A Dual Celebration of Skills and Excellence
The graduation was combined with the Mid Wales leg of the Roadtrip to Excellence Team Wales torch relay. This relay celebrates Wales hosting the WorldSkills UK National Finals apprenticeship competition for the first time, which is scheduled to run from November 25 to 28.
Faith O'Brien, the managing director of the award-winning Cambrian Training Company, addressed the graduates. She stated, "You are not just building your careers, you are shaping the future of Wales." She described the skills they gained as tools and encouraged them to keep learning and growing, adding that "every challenge is a chance to shape your future."
Ms O'Brien also revealed a significant achievement, announcing that more than 540 apprentices have completed their frameworks in the last six months. She characterised these completions as powerful stories of growth, resilience, and ambition.
Spotlight on Supported Shared Apprenticeships
Five apprentices who completed their qualifications through Cambrian Training's supported shared apprenticeship programme were present to graduate. This initiative, run in partnership with Elite and Agoriad, provides paid work experience and formal qualifications for individuals with additional learning needs.
The graduating apprentices from this programme are:
- Holly Curtis (Level 2 Cleaning and Support Services Skills)
- Alaw Williams (Level 2 Diploma in Hospitality Services)
- Dion Dimitrakis, Matthew Ball, and Malachi De Jesus (all achieving Level 2 Diplomas in Business Administration)
Rachel Edwards, line manager for graduate Dion Dimitrakis at Nevill Hall Hospital in Abergavenny, praised his development. "Dion has become an important part of the team," she said. "Over time on the programme, we have seen Dion grow his confidence to take on new responsibilities including being a mentor to our new internships."
Looking Ahead to Future Success
Faith O'Brien used the occasion to announce that nominations for the next Cambrian Training Company Apprenticeship Awards will open shortly. These awards are open to apprentices, employers, trainers, and tutors. "These awards are about celebrating excellence and we know it's everywhere, so let's make sure it's seen," she urged.
She reiterated the value of apprenticeships, noting they open doors for individuals and help businesses build skilled teams. "They remind us that learning doesn't only happen in classrooms - it happens in kitchens, workshops, salons, farms and offices," she concluded.
Cambrian Training Company, a leading provider of apprenticeships for Medr, covers a wide range of sectors including hospitality, business administration, health and social care, and leadership and management. The company's managing director also extended thanks to the trainers, mentors, employers, and families who supported the apprentices on their journeys.
