Adult learner endorses Apprenticeship Programme

Martin Room (58) from Caerphilly cannot speak highly enough of the benefits of studying, whatever your age. At 16 years of age, Martin left Bedwas Comprehensive School and attended The College, Ystrad Mynach, where he achieved a City & Guilds qualification in Bricklaying.

However, with the downturn in the building industry he found himself moving from job to job to support his family, but always remained eager to seek opportunities to further his career within the role.

His latest career move resulted in employment at Pullman Rail where he has worked as a Semi -Skilled Fitter for 7 years. Keen to progress within the organisation he was fortunate when an opportunity arose to apply for the NVQ Level 3 course; he passed the exam and enrolled on the NVQ Level 3 in Rail Engineering, Traction and Rolling Stock.

Speaking about the course Martin said, “Studying through the pandemic posed its own challenges due to the lockdown restrictions but I would definitely recommend Coleg y Cymoedd – despite the difficulties, the tutor was always available to provide support through various channels. I have now completed the course and received my NVQ Level 3 certificate.

Since completing the qualification, I have received promotion to a Skilled Fitter plus a pay rise, so I am already seeing the benefit of studying, you are never too old to study – Life is about learning experiences. This one has given me a huge sense of achievement and confidence, under the circumstances, my age, having completed the course in the middle of a global pandemic – it just goes to show you are never too old to learn and your life experience skills help.

Stephen Manning, Work Based Learning NVQ Assessor (Aviation/Engineering) at Coleg y Cymoedd said “It’s been a pleasure supporting Martin through his qualification, it has been a difficult time studying through the ‘lockdown’; he has worked so hard. He truly is an inspiration to his colleagues at Pullmans, providing practical support and motivation to complete the course”.

Scott McCarthy, Training Manager at Pullman Rail added “At Pullman Rail we are committed to providing a first class training programme for our staff. The Adult Learning Programme has proved a huge success; working in partnership with Coleg y Cymoedd for over eight years, we have seen ten employees complete the course with a further eighteen enrolled on the course this month. Martin is a great example of the benefits of the programme, his endorsement of the programme has given his colleagues the confidence and determination to complete the course.

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