More than 220 young people with additional learning needs (ALN) from across Swansea, Neath Port Talbot and the surrounding area came together to explore future career options in an engaging and supportive environment.
The “What Next? An Exploration of the World of Work” event – organised by Careers Wales in collaboration with My Choice Swansea – was held at TramShed Tech Swansea. The event offered learners a welcoming space to build confidence, try new activities and connect with local employers.
Bringing together more than 20 employers and colleges, the event gave pupils a chance to explore different industries, and ask questions about the world of work.
Learners took part in a range of practical tasks, explored different job roles, attended employer-led workshops, and received personalised advice from Careers Wales careers advisers.
Rebecca Thomas, a Careers Wales business engagement adviser, said:
“Giving young people the chance to speak directly with employers and take part in practical activities makes a huge difference. It helps them to understand what opportunities are available and builds the confidence they need to take their next steps.”
Catrin Leader, education lead at Bute Energy, said:
“I’m pleased to be here today. It’s important that young people have the opportunity to see what’s out there and what future career opportunities they might have. It’s also valuable for us as businesses to meet young people, understand what interests them, and make our approach relevant so they can be part of the future.”
David Bawden, strategic co-ordinator education skills at Swansea Council, said:
“We are proud to support ‘What Next? – An Exploration of the World of Work’ at Tramshed Swansea. Working with Careers Wales, employers and partners, this inspiring event gives young people with additional learning needs the opportunity to explore future pathways in an inclusive, hands-on environment. It’s about building confidence, raising aspirations and ensuring every learner can see a positive and achievable future beyond school.”
Schools in attendance:
- Maes Derw School PRU
- Ysgol Maes Y Coed School
- Morriston Comprehensive School
- Ysgol Bryn Castell
- Ysgol Calon Lân
- Ysgol Gymraeg Ystalyfera Bro Dur
- Ysgol Gyfun Gŵyr
- Ysgol Hendrefelin
The full list of employers and colleges in attendance at the event:
- Angel Advocates
- Brave Art Drama Theatre
- Bute Energy
- Dryard Bushcraft
- DVLA
- EE
- Gower College
- Legacy in the Community
- Monmouthshire Building Society
- Morgan Sindall
- Neath Port Talbot College
- Neath Port Talbot Council
- Neurokind Careers
- Organised Kaos
- Ospreys in the Community
- Ruskin Mill
- Shine Cymru
- Swansea Council – My Choice Swansea
- Swansea ITEC
- Technocamps
- Tramshed Tech
- Vision Fountain
- Westwards
