Young learners at Coleg Llandrillo are being praised for helping to lay the foundations of future careers after completing the college’s Junior Apprenticeship programme.

The college marked the achievement this week with its first-ever end-of-year awards ceremony for Junior Apprenticeships, bringing together students, families and tutors to celebrate a year of progress, practical learning and new opportunities.

Principal Paul Flanagan presented certificates to each learner, commending their commitment and performance throughout the programme, which blends core academic subjects such as maths and English with hands-on training in construction and mixed trades.

The initiative also gives learners the chance to work in industry-standard workshops while still in school, helping them build confidence, develop practical skills and explore potential career pathways in construction and related industries.

Among those celebrating were Carwynn, Luke, Jordan, Noah and Cheski, who will return to Coleg Llandrillo in September to continue their studies on full-time courses. Rhys and Frankie are now preparing to take the next step into industry employment.

For many of the learners, the experience has been transformative.

“I’ve learnt so many new skills,” said Cheski. “It’s addictive doing construction. I want to do more of it! I’ve applied to come back and do plumbing and electrical next year.”

Jordan added: “This has opened up a lot of opportunities for me. I now know what I want to do in the future, and I’m looking forward to coming back to college to do bricklaying full-time.”

Principal Paul Flanagan said the programme plays a key role in helping young people prepare for future careers in skilled industries.

“These awards highlight the importance and impact of our Junior Apprenticeship programme for learners and their families,” he said. “We are proud to be providing these learners with the opportunity to build a strong foundation here at Coleg Llandrillo, enabling them to progress to full-time study and train for professional careers, ultimately becoming the skilled workforce of the future.

“Today was a fantastic opportunity to recognise and celebrate the hard work and success of our Junior Apprenticeship learners in front of their families and tutors. I would also like to thank our dedicated staff, whose support and commitment make these achievements possible.”

The college is also encouraging more young people in Years 10 and 11 across Conwy and Denbighshire to consider future Junior Apprenticeship opportunities, with schools able to provide further information to interested pupils and parents.

The latest graduates have been congratulated on their achievements as they take their next steps towards further study and employment, marking another milestone for the growing programme at Coleg Llandrillo.