Cymoedd learner reaches for heights at local forklift company

Rhys Lloyd Thomas 19 from Hengoed attended the first FutureFest held at the Ystrad Mynach campus, and hasn’t looked back since. Rhys visited the event to gather some information on the Apprenticeship Programme, with a particular interest in Electrical Engineering.

Following the event Rhys registered with the Employment Bureau at the college and met with a member of the Futures team to discuss his career ambition, work experience, achievements and personal interests; in particular those linked to engineering. Rhys informed the team of his volunteering role at Blaenavon Heritage Railway, an experience which he hoped would support his application when applying for an apprenticeship.

Throughout ‘lockdown’ Rhys focussed on completing his Level 3 Engineering qualification and attended Futures virtual one to one meetings via Teams. During the meetings the staff supported him in preparing for interviews, ensuring his CV was fit for purpose and relevant covering letters were drafted.

Through the Employment Bureau Rhys was matched to an apprenticeship vacancy at a local family run forklift truck business. After attending an interview and completing a week’s paid work trial, Rhys was offered the position of Electrical Engineering Apprentice.

David Eyre, Engineering Co-ordinator Work Based Learning division said The apprenticeship will provide the foundation for Rhys’s personal development within his new role”.

Commenting on Rhys’s apprenticeship, Michele Harris-Cocker, Futures@Cymoedd Co-ordinator added “Rhys is a lovely polite young person who has a keen interest in electrical engineering. Whilst completing his studies he also found time to become a key volunteer at Blaenavon Heritage Rail. As soon as Betterserve got in touch with the college I knew he was the person for the role, the match was perfect. It’s so encouraging to hear that he is settling in well.

Vernon Leadbetter, Managing Director, BetterServe UK Ltd said“ The Futures Team at the college has been very supportive, helping us find the right candidate to match our business needs. Rhys has settled in really well and already taking on more responsibilities, I really have to thank them for all their support”

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