All posts by Laura Lewis

News

Debut college cohort graduates from prestigious Industrial Cadet programme

THE first ever cohort of Industrial Cadets has graduated from Coleg Cambria.

‘Cadets’ from the college’s Deeside site achieved 20 Gold and 15 Challenger Awards via the programme, a kite mark for schools and students seeking valuable and exciting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering Maths) opportunities.

There was also a ‘Best Effort’ prize for Ryan Reid, representing Atlas Copco, and a team award for learners working with Triumph Actuation Systems.

Over the course of the full academic year participants linked up with leading names in engineering and manufacturing and were later tasked with finding solutions and ideas to challenges before producing or presenting them to their employers and mentors.

Among the other companies involved were Ardagh, AMRC Cymru, ConvaTec, Magellan Aerospace, TATA, Electroimpact, ESD, DRB, UPM Shotton, JCB and Kellogg’s.

“It was a brilliant day and to see how they’ve developed their technical, practical and academic skills with Cambria and these fantastic organisations was very inspiring,” said Nick Tyson, Vice Principal for Technology, Engineering and Construction.

“The lion’s share of them have gone on to secure apprentices with their employers so it demonstrates what a valuable programme this is.”

He added: “This was our inaugural full cohort, and the response was really positive as it gave the learners an opportunity to gain vital real-life, real-time experience with fantastic organisations in various sectors, from food production to manufacturing, engineering and more.”

Among those in attendance was former Cambria student Jack Parry, from Bagillt, who has spent the past two years on a Project Management Apprenticeship with Broughton-based Raytheon UK, a global technology giant focused on aerospace, defence, cyber and intelligence.

The 20 year-old could have chosen to study engineering at university but on leaving St Richard Gwyn High School, Flint, opted for Cambria’s award-winning Engineering Centre of Excellence.

“Jack gave a fantastic presentation and is an example of how our partnerships with industry leaders can provide the springboard to an incredible career in STEM,” said Nick.

“Well done again to all of the graduates, you have very bright futures ahead of you.”

Led by the educational charity the Engineering Development Trust (EDT), the Industrial Cadets scheme is a benchmark for outreach and education, building pathways through academia and employment. Its Patron is HRH The Prince of Wales.

For more information, visit www.etrust.org.uk/industrial-cadets

Visit www.cambria.ac.uk for the latest news and information from Coleg Cambria

News

Cash prizes up for grabs as leading business hub takes show on the road

CASH investment is up for grabs via an enterprise hub offering free business development sessions to ambitious start-ups and entrepreneurs.

Experts from across the world of business are joining forces with Hwb Menter/Enterprise Hub @M-SParc to share their knowledge, advice and experience with participants from across Conwy county.

The Miwtini programme will be held in Colwyn Bay over two weeks from Monday June 13, featuring workshops on a range of topics including web design, PR, marketing, and customer service.

Those taking part will then be able to pitch their business ideas for investment – £3,000 for the winner and £2,000 for a runner up via the UK Community Renewal Fund.

2021 saw a 14% rise in the number of start-up businesses launched in the UK, with many people deciding to pursue a new career or launch a venture due to the pandemic.

Enterprise Hub Manager Sara Roberts said they want to help people begin their journey to commercial success.

“Miwtini is all about opportunities, providing entrepreneurs and anyone with the spark of an idea the platform to bring it to reality,” she added.

“We have some fantastic guest speakers who know what it takes to start a business and make a success of it, all the different facets to getting your name out there and managing future challenges.

“We have already had positive feedback and a lot of interest so I would encourage people to get in touch and sign up for what will be a very interesting and valuable fully-funded programme.”

This project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Community Renewal Fund and takes place over six in-person sessions at the M-SParc #OnTour satellite hub on Abergele Road, Colwyn Bay.

Among the speakers are Denbigh-based ‘Sales Geek’ Aaron Sussex; Martin Williams, Director of Radar PR in St Asaph, and Teresa Carnall, founder of TBC Marketing in Colwyn Bay.

Anna Openshaw, Senior Project Officer for Miwtini, believes joining forces with leading lights in multiple arenas will bring experience and insight to the agenda.

“It will be great to see like-minded people come together with their ideas to share best practice and learn from industry experts,” said Anna.

“For those with concerns about what is next for their business, what the pitfalls are and any questions on how to overcome barriers to success – particularly given the challenges of Covid-19 – this is the perfect place to find solutions.

“Whether it’s a hobby you want to take to the next level or a great big idea that’s going to change the world, we are here for you and confident Miwtini can play a part in helping you move forward with confidence.”

To register, visit Ffurflen Gais Miwtini Application Form (jotform.com) before the June 8 deadline.

For more information on how the Enterprise Hub can help you start-up in business, email post@hwbmenter.cymru or call 01248 858 070.

Alternatively, visit www.hwbmenter.cymru or follow @hwbmenter on social media. 

News

Production at revolutionary £20m net-zero dairy to begin this summer

THE opening of a revolutionary £20m cheese factory will have a major impact on the Welsh dairy industry for generations to come.

Lesley Griffiths MS, Minister for Rural Affairs, North Wales and Trefnydd paid a visit to Mona Island Dairy on Anglesey and was delighted to see progress made ahead of its unveiling in the coming weeks.

With recruitment for 15 key staff underway and senior management in place, the 25,000 sq ft development is approaching completion and will be capable of producing 7,000 tons of Welsh and continental cheeses every year.

The Minister praised Managing Director Ronald Akkerman and the team for their commitment to building the most innovative and ground-breaking cheese facility in Europe on Welsh soil, supported by a £3m grant from Welsh Government.

She added: “It’s been great to visit Mona Dairy, there is real potential for it to boost our dairy industry.

“As the first zero carbon emissions cheese plant in Europe it is a cutting-edge development with Wales’s food and drink industry once again a leading light.

“I’m delighted the Welsh Government supported this development and we all look forward to its opening this Spring.”

Based on Mona Industrial Park, the net-zero dairy will be powered by renewable energy and raise standards by implementing traditional and cutting-edge methods to manufacture Edam, Gouda, Cheddar, and a range of artisan cheeses using milk from local farms.

Ms Griffiths was joined on a tour of the factory by Mr Akkerman, Chairman David Wynne-Finch, and Dr Graham Jackson.

Production is expected to begin in June, and milk will be sourced from more than 40 Welsh dairy farmers within the first year of opening.

“It was a pleasure to have the Minister with us today and the opportunity to showcase these incredible facilities,” said Mr Akkerman.

“We are on course to open later this Spring as planned and are currently advertising to fill 15 operational roles in the weeks ahead, with a further eight this summer.

“By 2023 we will have a workforce of 100 or more people in place delivering new and innovative methods never seen before in cheese processing.”

He added: “We are already receiving positive feedback and there has been a lot of interest around the opening of Mona Island Dairy from prospective customers, potential job candidates and the food and drink sector, here in the UK and internationally.

“The foundations have been laid and now it’s just a matter of applying the finishing touches and ensuring we have the right people in place, so everything is ready for launch.

“We can’t wait to get started and thank everyone for their support, especially the rural community here on Anglesey.”

For a full list of job vacancies and more information on Mona Island Dairy, visit the website: www.monadairy.com.

News

Jobs growth, expansion and TV appearance for Welsh recruiter on new year high

North Wales recruiters started the year on a high with new partnerships and expansion plans.

The team at Colwyn Bay and Bangor-based Supertemps have been inundated with clients seeking employees in multiple industries over the winter months.

Managing Director Sarah Ellwood says demand is increasing for staff in sectors including IT, hospitality, retail, and manufacturing, but warned bosses to move fast for fear of losing out on their ideal applicant.

“The market has been candidate-driven for quite some time but since the onset of the pandemic it has reached new levels,” said Sarah.

“Often businesses will have to make the decision immediately because if they wait even a few hours another offer will have been made and the applicant snapped up.

“We are urging managers and their HR departments to move quickly or miss out.”

With burgeoning private and public sector contracts in place – North Wales Fire and Rescue Service among them – and plans to take on new staff of their own, Sarah is thrilled to see the long-standing firm make its way back from the challenges of the Covid-19 crisis.

Llinos Gutierrez-Jones, Head of Human Resources for North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We have a number of support staff vacancies being advertised currently, and Supertemps are playing a key role in helping us recruit the right people for these rewarding roles.”

Sarah added: “It has been a tough time, for Supertemps and so many of the companies we work with in this region and beyond, but the green shoots are appearing.

“As before we have a lot in store for the year, including our annual employment law event with Manchester-based JMW Solicitors, so we hope to see lots of people join us for that.

“The pandemic has raised many HR and recruitment issues that were unprecedented, so they will be on hand to answer any questions you may have.

“Thanks as always to our amazing clients, collaborators and partners for your support – we wish you all the best of luck for 2022.”

The free employment seminar and Q&A will be held virtually on Tuesday March 8 from 10am. To register, visit https://employmentlawupdate2022.eventbrite.co.uk.

For a full list of job vacancies and for further information, visit www.supertemps.co.uk 

News

Innovators and entrepreneurs urged to go for grants supporting post-Covid recovery

INNOVATORS and entrepreneurs with sustainable project ideas are being urged to apply for grants that will drive post-Covid economic recovery in Denbighshire.

Led by Cadwyn Clwyd and Denbighshire Voluntary Services Council (DVSC), the £600,000 Community Innovation Denbighshire project will focus on encouraging micro firms, community groups and social enterprises in rural and urban areas to put forward proposals that will deliver regional and environmental benefits.

Supported by Denbighshire County Council and part-funded by the UK Government through the £220m UK Community Renewal Fund, support is available for 25 organisations or individuals who can apply for a £5,000 grant they will match-fund to trial new products, systems, and services.

Business Wales will also be on hand with guidance and advice throughout the process.

Cadwyn Clwyd Manager Lowri Owain said this is a “fantastic opportunity” to capitalise on financial aid that will develop skills and systems while laying the foundation for prosperity and jobs.

“Our primary aim is to work in partnership with Denbighshire entrepreneurs and community groups to test the viability of their business concepts in a supportive, managed environment while evaluating the positive impact they could have on the local economy,” said Lowri.

“Ultimately, given the challenges of the Coronavirus pandemic there is a need for this kind of support, but also for a platform to demonstrate and showcase the incredible innovations which have taken place in lockdown, ideas which could lead to sustainable, high-quality products and services.

“We are not limited to a particularly industry or sector, we want to hear from people across the county and help them make a difference for years to come, whether that be through tourism, food and drink, retail, leisure or a whole host of other arenas.”

Community groups and social enterprises can also apply for funding support up to £20,000 for feasibility studies and pilot projects which could form the basis of bids needing further support from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity fund when it launches later this year.

These can be centred around sustainability, green growth and innovations that help the local economy bounce back from the challenges of the Coronavirus.

Cadwyn Clwyd’s Business Partnerships Officer Donna Hughes said they would like to see new technologies come to the fore which will provide wider environmental and community benefits.

“We hope to hear from organisations in coastal areas as well as rural locations as the scheme is targeting all areas of Denbighshire,” said Donna.

“As well as having an impact locally the funding and guidance available will add value for the selected organisations and community groups as they look to the future – it is a huge opportunity for them.”

Vale of Clwyd MP Dr James Davies backed the initiative and said: “It’s important that micro and small businesses in the region are given support and a platform to demonstrate and showcase their innovation.

“The UK Government’s Community Renewal Fund is enabling them to do that through Community Innovation Denbighshire. Some SMEs will have started in the extreme pressures of Covid, and it is particularly good to see them being given an opportunity to flourish.

“I would encourage all such businesses with the potential to improve their existing services or develop new sustainable products that can have an impact on the local community and economy, to apply for a grant.”

For more information, email admin@cadwynclwyd.co.uk or visit the Cadwyn Clwyd website: www.cadwynclwyd.co.uk. Alternatively, call 01490 340500.

Follow the hashtag #UKCOMMUNITYRENEWALFUND on social media.

NOTES TO EDITORS: The UK Community Renewal Fund is a UK Government programme for 2021/22. This aims to support people and communities most in need across the UK to pilot programmes and new approaches to prepare for the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. It invests in skills, community and place, local business, and supporting people into employment. For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-community-renewal-fund-prospectus

News

‘Industrial Cadets’ sharpen skills with giants of manufacturing and engineering in Wales

INDUSTRIAL Cadets are sharpening their skills and career prospects in partnership with Coleg Cambria and leading North Wales companies.

More than 60 ‘Cadets’ from the college’s Deeside site are combining their studies with placements at industry heavyweights including Ardagh, AMRC Cymru, ConvaTec, Magellan Aerospace, Atlas Copco, TATA, Electroimpact, ESD, DRB, Triumph Actuation Systems, UPM Shotton, JCB and Kellogg’s.

The debut cohort joined Cambria in September and are already making great strides towards their gold awards, according to Nick Tyson, Vice Principal for Technology, Engineering and Construction.

“The Industrial Cadet programme has been incredibly popular and is giving the learners an opportunity to gain vital real-life, real-time experience with fantastic organisations in various sectors, from food production to manufacturing, engineering and more,” said Nick.

“They are operating in groups of six with different businesses and have access to support and guidance, guest speakers and mentors.

“This will all culminate in a presentation based on a project they’re currently working on, and ultimately, if successful, the gold award.”

He added: “The most important aspect is the work-related side of this because there is demand for apprentices and they will be the perfect fit to fill those roles and go on to secure jobs in the future.

“This is the first time Cambria has been involved and we look forward to building on existing partnerships to provide more opportunities like this, which have been successful despite the challenges of the pandemic.”

Led by the educational charity the Engineering Development Trust (EDT), the programme is an industry benchmark for outreach and education, building pathways through academia and employment.

Promoting the development of the next generation of young minds, Industrial Cadets is a kite mark for schools and students seeking valuable and exciting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering Maths) opportunities.

Alice Batts, Industrial Cadets Lead, said: “Taking part is an excellent CSR (corporate social responsibility) opportunity, supports early talent pipeline, helps to develop staff, and is a fantastic way to nurture local talent and inform them about the STEM career opportunities that are available to them locally.”

Patron HRH The Prince of Wales added: “It is hugely encouraging that so many young people have become Industrial Cadets.

“It’s clear to me that the rapid pace of change in the way our industry is operating is bringing a host of new challenges and opportunities, not only in fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics but also of course in the creative arts.”

For more information, visit www.etrust.org.uk/industrial-cadets

Visit www.cambria.ac.uk for the latest news and information from Coleg Cambria.

News

Vulnerable teens learn value of personal skills and communication at new music studio

YOUNG people learnt the value of communication and personal skills on a social enterprise pilot programme.

Newly launched Wrexham Sounds hosted a group of learners from Bryn Tirion Hall School, which supports vulnerable teenagers with special needs at its site in Bersham.

Led by Dave Roberts, the group focused on empathetic listening and understanding strengths and traits they would like to improve, and how key decisions can shape our lives and actions.

The Rhosrobin music studio – which aims to transform the lives of disadvantaged children across North Wales – plans to roll out the sessions further in 2022.

“The pilot programme was a big success and the group from Bryn Tirion really engaged throughout,” said Dave, from Welshpool.

“There were musical elements to it – we created a piece that everyone played a part in – and had some really interesting discussions about how we can communicate with each other better, understanding ourselves, why we create goals and overcoming the barriers to achieving them.

“Basically, that journey of getting to know yourself, where you want to go, how you get there and who can help along the way.

“We are now evaluating the sessions, looking at what worked well and how we can take it forward.”

He added: “I really love what Wrexham Sounds are doing, and their vision; the team are really bringing something fresh and new to the community and will have a huge impact on young people in this region and beyond.

“It’s fantastic to see something different driven by music and I’m excited to be a part of it.”

Sarah Gaffney, Career and Work-Related Education Manager at Bryn Tirion, was in agreement.

“We support youngsters from some of the most-hard to reach areas, so the skills and ideas discussed and communicated during the sessions were really positive and beneficial for the group,” said Sarah.

“The learners really engaged with Dave and enjoyed the sessions so we look forward to returning to Wrexham Sounds and being part of the programme again in the future.”

Driven by directors Chris Lloyd, Dave Gray and Caroline Richards, and General Manager Olivia Gallagher, Wrexham Sounds has been developing new partnerships and reconnecting with stakeholders and community groups, having renovated the studios and facilities, including the installation of state-of-the-art equipment and technology.

As well as children and teenagers who will be referred via a range of local agencies and educators, there will be sessions for pupils unable to access music lessons at school, plus related activities for toddlers and infants.

Olivia believes foundations are being laid for a bright future and is confident even greater strides will be made in 2022.

“Making a difference is our primary focus, and we believe these personal skills sessions will do that,” she added.

“The group from Bryn Tirion were fantastic and really engaged with Dave and the content of the programme. They were happy to interact and explore new ideas, which is exactly what we wanted to achieve.

“As we expand our services and welcome more people and different groups to the studios in the New Year, we hope to increase our provision and reach even more people, providing opportunities that might not otherwise be available to them.”

The personal skills course will be available to all schools in the Wrexham area from Spring 2022. Email contact@wrexhamsounds.org or call 01978 345245 for details.

For more information, visit www.wrexhamsounds.org and follow them on social media @wrexhamsounds.

NOTES: Wrexham Sounds is supported by Wales Council for Voluntary Action, The Community Fund, Thomas Howells North Wales Educational Fund, Temperance Hall Trust, Wrexham County Borough Council, Yamaha Music Europe, Arts Council Wales, Third Sector Resilience Fund, Moondance Foundation and AVOW.

News

‘High Potential’ programme driving excellence at North Wales college

DRIVING excellence is part of the fabric at Coleg Cambria.

And that ethos has led to dominant performances in the prestigious WorldSkills UK finals.

The north east Wales institution has created a high-potential programme which identifies and encourages learners who have shown promise and the ability to achieve great things in their chosen field.

Among those developing a positive mindset among the students is Ruth Payton, a Beauty Therapy lecturer and coach for the programme at the college’s Deeside site.

Formerly a performance coach for WorldSkills UK, Ruth follows the student journey from regional to national level, and on the global stage.

She attended the last WorldSkills contest in Kazan, Russia, and says Cambria’s current, 25-strong cohort can match previous performances.

“I noticed a real determination among our UK finalists, which is perhaps linked to the challenges they – and all of us – have been through during the Covid-19 pandemic,” she said.

“We are seeing a new type of competitor, more resilient and determined that nothing will stand in their way.

“That’s the mindset we are trying to create at the college by replicating the environment they face at WorldSkills; we have held boot camp activities and are preparing them mentally, because if they are successful at the UK finals and achieve a medal, they’ll be invited to be part of Squad UK and embark on an intense training programme ahead of Shanghai 2022.”

Ruth says those who have “embraced and engaged” with the high-potential programme were able to deal with the combative atmosphere in Kazan.

“The learners were able to problem solve and thrive in that high pressure environment,” she added.

“But it’s not just about the competition, we drive excellence across all areas of the college, both academically and vocationally.

“It is important to nurture their potential and help students to demonstrate their capability; we are giving them a platform to realise their potential and be all they can be, whatever their background, whatever the subject.”

Coleg Cambria is hosting nine WorldSkills UK finals at its Bersham Road and Yale sites in Wrexham, and at Deeside, all this week (November 15-19).

Ruth will be in attendance and has been confirmed as one of five representatives from the college to be named an Educator for the WorldSkills UK Centre of Excellence, which will see more than 40,000 young students and apprentices – from all socio-economic groups across the UK – armed with world-class skills.

For the full list of times and locations for the WorldSkills UK finals at Coleg Cambria, visit www.cambria.ac.uk/events/worldskills-uk-finals/

News

Welsh financial advice firm continues boom with London expansion

A THRIVING financial planning business centred on ethical investment and sustainability has expanded its London operation.

Mold-based Celtic Financial Planning won new clients and increased its capital management portfolio throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

And now the award-winning organisation – led by director Rob Lewis – has added a talented chartered financial planner to their team in Canary Wharf, one of the leading finance sectors in the UK.

Victoria Nabarro joins Cleona Lira in driving the company’s customer base in the City’s bustling business district; both are committed to encouraging the next generation of females into a traditionally male-dominated industry, and delivering sound, principled guidance and advice.

Victoria became one of the youngest women to ever qualify for Chartered Financial Planner status at just 24 years of age.

Now 27, she is delighted to join Celtic – named in the Citywire New Model Advertiser top 100 financial advice firms – and looks forward to a bright future with the organisation.

“I’m really excited to be part of this fantastic family-run organisation,” said Victoria, originally from Leeds and a former student at the University of Manchester.

“That was a big attraction for me, and the systems, skill and experience they have in place, all of which is second to none.

“It’s a great place to be at a pivotal time for this sector, so I hope to make a big impact.”

After graduating from university Victoria worked for a leading wealth management company while achieving her CIPFA (Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy) Fellowship.

An “ambitious and driven” individual, she is one of the industry’s brightest stars and plans to follow in the footsteps of Cleona – a finalist in the Woman of the Year – Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Advice category at the 2021 Women in Financial Advice Awards – in offering a first-class service built on trust and purpose.

“I initially represented a broad range of clients, but my specialities are ethical investment, working with female investors and executive level leaders, and ultra-high net worth investors,” said Victoria.

“With this base you can really make a difference because they are looking at the bigger picture rather than just making more money. There is a drive to do good for future generations, for their communities and the environment, which is a breath of fresh air.”

She added: “I’m passionate about what I do but also in being a role model to young girls who might want a career in financial advice and the investment arena.

“It is not a role that women are traditionally encouraged to pursue, but that has to change, especially given the rising demand for candidates.

“It is more important than ever that people are stable and secure and flourishing financially, and it’s vital we communicate that, especially to younger people.

“The archetypal view is that financial advice is for those who are middle aged and above, that it’s inaccessible, especially for women – Celtic Financial Planning is trying to change that, and I’m proud to be a part of it.”

Rob is proud to have Victoria join their 12-strong team and believes she can help them to achieve their target of £100m in managed funds from 2022.

“We are building a strong, diverse and principled group which is delivering for clients and at the forefront of advances in this industry,” he added.

“Victoria is a very talented, motivated financial planner who shares our core values – we are thrilled to have her onboard.”

For more information, visit www.celticfp.co.uk or follow @celtic_FP on social media.

News

Welsh college to host series of WorldSkills UK finals

COLEG CAMBRIA is to host a series of WorldSkills finals in the coming weeks.

The college will welcome participants from across the UK to its sites in Wrexham and Deeside from Monday November 15 to Friday November 19.

Cambria is to hold nine finals in all. They will take place at the following venues:

Yale, Wrexham: Nail Technician, Commercial Make-Up, Creative Media Make-Up, Beauty Therapy Practitioner, Beauty Therapist.

Bersham Road, Wrexham: Manufacturing Team Challenge, Construction Metalwork.

Deeside: Sheet Metalwork, Welding.

Coleg Cambria has one of the largest WorldSkills UK cohorts in Wales, with 25 representatives selected for the prestigious event.

Among the categories they will contest are sheet metalwork technology, aeronautical engineering, beauty therapy, CNC milling, construction metalwork, floristry, hairdressing, IT support, nail technician, laboratory technician and the Manufacturing Team Challenge.

Learner Experience and Enterprise Manager Rona Griffiths said they are delighted to again be chosen to moderate key areas of the WorldSkills programme.

“The facilities at our sites across north east Wales are second to none, and we look forward to hosting participants from all over the UK,” said Rona.

“And with so many of our own learners and apprentices taking part it looks like being another successful year for the college in this competition.”

Rona added: “Best of luck to all of the finalists – we look forward to seeing you in the coming weeks.”

The winners of the UK finals will be crowned at a ceremony streamed live on the WorldSkills UK website and hosted by TV presenter Steph McGovern – star of the Channel 4 Show Packed Lunch – on November 26.

The news comes after Cambria was chosen as one of just 12 institutions to become part of the WorldSkills UK Centre of Excellence, in addition to 20 announced last autumn when the three-year pilot project was launched.

The Centre of Excellence – partnered and funded by educational charity and awarding body NCFE – will see more than 40,000 young students and apprentices – from all socio-economic groups across the UK – armed with world-class skills.

Watch the awards ceremony live here: National Finals 2021 ceremony | WorldSkills UK

For the full list of times and locations for the WorldSkills UK finals at Coleg Cambria, visit www.cambria.ac.uk/events/worldskills-uk-finals/