All posts by Lisa Baker

News

Top college to host ‘accessible’ open events across North Wales

COLEG CAMBRIA will be holding a series of open events in March.

The sessions will take place in person at the following sites over the coming weeks:

  • Deeside and Deeside Sixth Form Centre: Wednesday March 9 from 5.30pm to 8pm.
  • Llysfasi: Saturday March 12 from 10am to 12pm.
  • Yale, Yale Sixth and Bersham Road in Wrexham: Wednesday March 16 from 5.30pm to 8pm.
  • Northop: Saturday March 19 from 10am to 12pm.

The college will also host accessible open events for neurodiverse people wanting to study in a sensory-supportive setting.

Spaces are limited so those in attendance can explore and enjoy Cambria’s cutting-edge facilities in a warm, welcoming environment without large crowds.

And Head of Inclusion Lizzie Stevens will be on hand to answer any questions on what courses are available.

These will be held in Deeside on Wednesday March 23 from 5.30pm to 6.30pm, and Yale Wrexham from 5.30pm to 6.30pm on Thursday March 24.

Principal Sue Price looks forward to meeting prospective students and their families and showcasing the breadth of programmes on offer across the four sites, from Engineering and Agriculture to Performing Arts, Business, Applied Science and more.

“We are delighted to hold these March open events face-to-face so we can fully demonstrate the wide range of subjects, apprenticeships and qualifications available at Coleg Cambria,” she said.

Cambria’s Chief Executive Yana Williams added: “By hosting open events across all four sites and accessible sessions at Yale and Deeside we can give prospective students a flavour of why they should choose to study here.

“We have unveiled modern, state-of-the-art facilities in past years and innovative courses designed in collaboration with industry, so learners are well prepared for their future careers.

“Importantly, our lecturers and staff will also highlight the college’s focus on health and wellbeing, and why the students are at the heart of everything we do.

“Cambria is about community and helping all of our learners to achieve their goals and strive for excellence in a supportive, inspiring setting – on behalf of the team here, we look forward to seeing you soon.”

For more information and to register for the accessible open events, visit www.cambria.ac.uk/accessibleopenevents

News

Students create wellbeing ‘Wildlife Corridor’ on North Wales college site

STUDENTS transformed a college site into a ‘wildlife corridor’ and wellbeing garden.

Traineeship learners, staff and members of the Construction Trainee Academy at Coleg Cambria Deeside began work on the 40 sq metre site in the autumn.

With the support of Keep Wales Tidy and their Local Places for Nature project, and sponsorship from local business Monkey Lady Corporate Wear, they have planted more than 100 trees, wildflowers, and meadows, 2000 native bulbs, shrubs and more.

The Construction cohort built wooden planters and the revamped patch also includes a greenhouse, seating areas, gravel paths, disabled access, bird feeders, hedgehog boxes and green spaces which can be used for peace and relaxation, outdoor lessons and as a conservation and composting area.

Employability Mentor and Curriculum Lead Paula Blundell praised the learners for their commitment to the five-year initiative: “They have worked so hard over past months to bring this together, it looks brilliant.

“In the coming weeks as Spring approaches I’m sure the garden and areas around the building will be awash with colour and bring a smile to people’s faces.

“As well as being a place to relax the wildlife corridor will be perfect for outdoor learning and there are opportunities for sustainable food production among other projects.

“We are delighted with the progress made and thank Keep Wales Tidy and Monkey Lady Corporate Wear for their generosity and support.”

Classroom Assistant Brian Valentine added: “The garden is a haven for the students, staff and visitors to the college to enjoy, with so much nature on our doorstep.

“It will be hugely beneficial as a learning tool but also for the conservation of wildlife, including hedgehogs and many types of birds that have already paid us a visit!”

The wildlife corridor also includes new fencing and fruit and vegetable patches, transforming the area and providing the learners with new skills.

Keep Wales Tidy Flintshire Project Officer Wendy Jones said: “We are delighted Coleg Cambria Deeside has made a real difference through our Local Places for Nature project.

“Creating the new garden will not only provide a space for nature but will offer food growing opportunities, ways to engage with the wider community and provide a new place for students, staff and visitors to enjoy.”

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

For more on Keep Wales Tidy projects and to support the organisation, visit the website: www.keepwalestidy.cymru

News

International recognition for £20m sustainable dairy factory ahead of Spring opening

A £20MILLION cheese factory development received international recognition ahead of its opening this Spring.

Lauded as the cream of sustainability and innovation in the sector, Mona Dairy was visited by Australia’s High Commissioner George Brandis QC and Virginia Crosbie, MP for Ynys Mon.

The 25,000 sq ft Anglesey facility will be the most modern anywhere in Europe, capable of producing 7,000 tons of Welsh and continental cheeses every year.

Just weeks after the UK signed a historic trade deal with Australia – expected to unlock more than £10bn in contracts annually, and worth a reported £60m to the Welsh economy – Mr Brandis congratulated Mona Dairy Managing Director Ronald Akkerman and colleagues for bringing their vision to fruition.

He added: “One of the great winners of this trade agreement is the processed food sector.

“Welsh cheeses produced from Welsh farm-supplied milk will be one of the beneficiaries of the deal, so there are opportunities to be seized.”

Based on Mona Industrial Park, the dairy was built using the most modern production technology available.

Creating 100 jobs and running entirely on renewable energy, it will be a zero combustion and zero emissions site benefiting from circular systems for inputs such as water and heat.

Mr Akkerman said the project will set new standards for the industry, blending traditional and revolutionary methods to produce Edam, Gouda, Cheddar, and a range of artisan cheeses using milk from local farms.

“This factory is the largest development in the food sector in recent times and is attracting a great deal of interest from across the industry globally,” said Mr Akkerman.

“It is very exciting to now be able to show people around the plant as it is nearing completion.

“We thank Mr Brandis and Mrs Crosbie for coming to see first-hand what an innovative project this is, for us, the region and the dairy sector.”

Mrs Crosbie added: “With a clear focus on sustainable and ethical cheese production, Mona Dairy will set new standards for the industry and the world.

“It is wonderful to see such a market leading initiative on Ynys Mon, which will create 100 jobs for the area.  All with sustainability firmly at its core.”

Mona Dairy’s core ethos is to deliver a better, fair, and transparent deal for farmers, whilst building their sustainability and environmental credentials and encouraging regenerative dairy practices.

Mr Akkerman said: “We want to do this because not only is it fundamental for the environment, there’s also much greater demand from consumers for brands that have sustainable credentials.

“We can deliver that, as our production facility is well positioned to give the products created here a global competitive advantage.

“It’s an exciting time for us and for the industry – we can’t wait for the process to begin.”

Visit www.monadairy.com for more news and information from Mona Dairy.

News

Campaigners launch appeal to save landmark roof ahead of £5.2m development

CONSERVATION campaigners are aiming to ‘Raise the Roof’ and carry out emergency work on a North Wales landmark.

A series of storms over past weeks accelerated the need for crucial replacement and repairs to the roof of the Grade II-listed John Summers Clock Tower in Deeside.

Enbarr Foundation director Vicki Roskams and fellow ‘Guardians’ have set up a CrowdFunding page in a bid to reach their target of £350,000 and are appealing for builders’ merchants, roofing firms and industrial suppliers to help with materials and labour, including felt and wooden beams and batons.

More than £600,000 in grants and financial support for the £5.2m site revamp has been secured over the last 18 months from organisations including Welsh Government, Transport for Wales, the National Lottery, the Welsh Council for Voluntary Action (WCVA), Comic Relief, Architectural Heritage, CADW, Parc Adfer and Flintshire County Council.

But Vicki says this capital is largely earmarked for other areas of the project

“The grants we have received in past months are for the basement and building itself, not the roof,” said Vicki.

“We have patched it up as much as possible following years of vandalism and decay but the storms and bad weather throughout Winter have had a major impact and mean we need a permanent solution, and quickly.

“There is no way the roof will make it through another year in its current state, there is significant work to be done and we need experts in to do it, so we are appealing to local businesses and suppliers to get in touch.”

She added: “As more funding comes in there will be opportunities to work together in the future, and anyone who comes to our aid will be able to use the facilities and services for free on completion, but for now we are relying on kindness and generosity.”

With the support of new directors including former Tata Steel apprentice and now Ethikos Group CEO Scott Davis, and Charlotte Summers – great-great-great granddaughter of the Victorian steel magnate John Summers – she is confident they will find a solution and is calling on the community and volunteers to get behind them like never before.

“We have received incredible support since day one, and made huge progress over the last few years,” said Vicki.

“But ultimately, if the roof is in a bad state of disrepair and letting in rain it affects the whole building and will become a safety concern going forward.

“Construction is now underway on-site, but this is our priority; this is the centre-point of this area, bringing people together and providing a beacon of hope for so many who have experienced so many challenges in recent times, including the pandemic.

“This is a critical stage for the development so please get in touch if you can pledge your assistance – we hugely appreciate any help you can give us.”

The John Summer Clock Tower building opened in 1907 and was home to the general office of Shotton Steelworks – now Tata Steel – on the banks of the River Dee, before closing in 2009 and falling into serious disrepair after being sold by the company.

Plans for the site include a community hub, heritage skills and training centre, café, library, woodland garden, live events venue and much more.

The committee is currently recruiting for a project officer and a project manager, and celebrating new partnerships with organisations including Procure Plus, Coleg Cambria, Toyota and Forces Fitness.

Visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/savetheclocktower—raise-the-roof to show your support for the Raise the Roof appeal.

To support the campaign with materials or labour, and for more information, follow Guardians of the Clocktower on Facebook or visit the website: www.savetheclocktower.co.uk.

News

Surging energy costs lead to solar sales boom at North Wales renewables company

AN UNPRECEDENTED rise in gas and electricity bills has led to even greater demand for solar energy.

Carbon Zero Renewables – part of the UK Leisure Living Group, which has sites in St Asaph, Mochdre and Deeside – is taking on more staff to cope with a surge in enquiries, having experienced their busiest ever January.

Following the announcement householders will pay 54% more on average for their energy from April – and a further increase expected in October – long-term investment in a sustainable alternative is becoming more and more popular.

And with a move towards electric and hybrid vehicles, most people – particularly business owners – should commit now to save themselves further financial pressure, according to Managing Director Gareth Jones.

“The new price cap is going to make life very difficult for homeowners and companies in fixed contracts which for years had been affordable but could now treble,” said Gareth.

“We are already hearing horror stories from big energy using businesses on how their bill is doubling or in some cases tripling.

“A £100,000 power bill to a £300,000 power bill may mean some are no longer viable, so this is a major problem.”

He added: “Solar panels are an investment and for those people looking further ahead they will be the most viable option, especially as advances in electric continue to take place and more people install high-energy items at their properties, such as car-charging ports, air source heat pumps and hot tubs.

“That has been reflected in our sales as 2022 started with a flurry of orders and the coming months look even busier. We are seeing the interest this winter I would expect to see in the summer, which is incredible.

“Orders are also a lot bigger than ever before, so we will be taking on a new business development manager, a project manager and other roles will be created in the summer if things continue like this.”

The moneysavingexpert.com website – founded by consumer champion Martin Lewis – discussed the pros and cons of renewable alternatives and said: “as well as saving you money on your energy bills, solar panels can still generate some electricity on gloomy days”, adding that “savings depend on system size, electricity use, whether you’re at home during the day to use the energy you’re producing and other factors”.

Gareth, a board member at the Federation of Master Builders and North Wales Past President, said:

“There are still myths around solar, the biggest one being it only works when the sun is shining.

“While more energy will be generated in hot weather, the panels still produce all year-round so if people are at home in the day – and more are due to a change in working conditions because of the pandemic – then they could capitalise on free power by then doing their washing and other household chores they would usually do at night.

“There are many benefits, but right now with so many people concerned as to what the future will bring the most important thing is clear communication and help for those who need it most.”

He added: “I’ve spoken previously about the lack of infrastructure nationally to cope with the electric agenda and it’s still way off. The Prime Minister’s team even confirmed that in recent correspondence I had with them.

“The Government has to do more to get on board and help future-proof our homes and business because this problem isn’t going to go away.

“We are on hand to speak to people who are worried, who need more information on solar or don’t know which way to turn at the current time – get in touch anytime, the team at Carbon Zero Renewables are here to help.”

For support, guidance and more information, visit the website Solar Panels North Wales & North West – Carbon Zero (carbonzerorenewables.co.uk) or call 08450 34 35 40.

NOTES: MoneySavingExpert article on solar energy: www.moneysavingexpert.com/utilities/free-solar-panels/

coleg cambria, Education

Retail worker who returned to college after decade away lands dream job with pest control giant

A SOFTWARE developer who returned to college after more than a decade is now working in his dream job thanks to a global pest management giant.

Dan Evans, from Holywell, first attended Coleg Cambria Deeside in 2007 to study for a Level 2 BTEC in IT but was forced to abandon his studies for personal reasons.

Ten years in the retail and manufacturing sectors followed, before the 32 year-old – supported by partner Katonah – decided to go back to Cambria and successfully complete a Level 3 BTEC in IT.

That gave him the opportunity to pursue a career in computer programming and design with Russell IPM in Flint.

The move was made permanent in January – just weeks after the birth of first child, Evelyn – and Dan is now enjoying a great start to 2022 as a new Dad in his new role.

“I went to college from high school, but it didn’t work out, so I found myself in several retail jobs over the next decade,” said Dan, a former pupil at Holywell High School.

“In the back of my mind I had always wanted to work in IT, particularly software and game development, so in the summer of 2019 with Katonah’s backing I decided to go back to college.

“It was funny returning and seeing the same lecturers who had taught me all those years before, but everything else was different. It was Deeside College back then and the new facilities they have now are incredible.

“Sadly, because of the pandemic I hardly had a chance to use them, but as before the support of my lecturers – notably Paul Newman, Claire Payne, and Nick Dellaway – was fantastic, they made the whole process enjoyable and helped me get where I needed to be.”

He added: “To now be working full time at a company like Russell IPM is a dream come true; I am a software developer but have been encouraged to stretch myself and try new things, sharpen my CAD (Computer-Aided Design) skills and am even working on creative and innovative product prototypes.

“It’s amazing, every day is different and I’m very thankful, to them and of course Coleg Cambria for giving me the confidence to go for it. They showed me that if you do want to change the course of your life, it’s never too late.”

Lecturer Paul Newman congratulated Dan and said he is an example of how you should never give up on your vision.

“It was terrific to have Dan back with us after more than 10 years; he returned with a diligence and dedication which meant he was always going to achieve the qualification and go on to work in his chosen field – we wish him every success in the future.”

With a headquarters in Deeside and further sites in Europe, Africa, Asia and the Middle East, Russell IPM is one of the leading manufacturers of insect pheromone-based monitoring and control products.

Dr Dhurgham Al-karawi, Programming and Technical Manager at Russell IPM said: “Since Dan joined the company he has fit right into the team.

“He was hired as a software developer, quickly showed he has a keen interest in CAD/CAM and has gone on to develop various 3D models for products.

“It has been a joy to work with Dan because he is a well organised person, adaptable, as well as critical thinking. He has achieved a great progress since he joined us, and I look forward to seeing how he grows into the company as his career moves forward.”

Visit www.cambria.ac.uk for more on the wide range of courses and qualifications available at Coleg Cambria.

For more news and information from Russell IPM, visit the website: www.russellipm.com.

Business

Booming family firm among graduates on esteemed leadership programme

DELEGATES on an esteemed leadership programme met for the first time in person at a glittering graduation ceremony.

The successful 20Twenty Business Growth Programme cohorts were joined at the event – held at Rossett Hall, Wrexham – by Head of Bangor Business School, Professor Bruce Vanstone, and joint sponsor Hannah Munro, Managing Director of ITAS software specialists.

45 representatives from organisations in Flintshire, Wrexham and north Powys received their Level 4 and Level 7 certificates, with all of them thanking tutors and trainers for having a positive effect on their professional outlook and strategic operations.

Lorraine Hopkins, Manager for the Leading Business Growth programmes at Bangor Business School, congratulated the 2022 alumni on completing the course virtually, and was delighted to be able to hold the graduation ceremony in person.

“We were thrilled to be able to bring delegates together to celebrate their achievements,” she said.

“Holding sessions and workshops online has been challenging but the cohort showed their resilience and adaptability, characteristics which will continue to serve them well in their daily professional lives.

“We could not be prouder of them all and are delighted to receive such positive feedback ahead of the start of our next programme this Spring.”

Lorraine added: “For many of them it was the first time they had met in person, so it was a real honour to have everyone in one place to mark this momentous occasion.”

Among those graduating was Scott Beddow, Procurement Manager at Chirk-based Archwood Group – the third person from the company to complete the 20Twenty programme.

Employing 125 people, the family-run business – a holder of the Investors in People Gold standard – has been designing, manufacturing, and supplying timber products for over 150 years.

Scott says completing the Level 7 CMI Programme – which is 80% funded by the European Social Fund (ESF) through Welsh Government – has given them fresh impetus to go on and achieve even more in the future.

“Despite the whole programme being delivered virtually due to the pandemic it worked out very well, we still managed to network and meet new people and the resources provided made for an interactive, enjoyable experience,” he said.

“A lot of the group still keep in touch and share ideas, discuss our strategies and have grown together during the course, comparing styles, and knowing the difference between leadership and management.

“The tutors brought different skill sets and perspectives which opened our eyes to different ways of thinking. It was a really insightful and rewarding programme I would definitely recommend to any owner, manager or director in business.”

Earlier this year, Archwood – which includes the brands Richard Burbidge, Atkinson & Kirby, and Mason’s Timber – appointed an Environmental Action Group to develop a carbon footprint management plan focused on becoming a net zero organisation.

Scott says information and guidance received via 20Twenty will feed into that and other pivotal decisions going forward.

“My final project was around Change Management and is already part of our operations; ensuring we all communicate and collaborate across the company, that everyone is on the same page and each member of the team plays their part,” he said.

“Like many businesses we have faced challenges during Covid – especially in the supply chain – but we anticipated demand and possible delays, so it has worked for us.

“This kind of strategic thinking and scrutiny has benefited the company as 99% of our products are in stock – given what’s happened globally that’s a fantastic result.”

Scott added: “Archwood products are high quality and well established and that’s what we pride ourselves on. We’ve changed the way we do things and in tandem with what I’ve learned on the 20Twenty programme that puts us in a very good position.

“But ultimately it’s all about passion, and we love what we do here.”

For more information and to sign up for the next 20Twenty Business Growth Programme, email j.whittaker@bangor.ac.uk or visit the website: www.20TwentyBusinessGrowth.com.

For the latest news and information from Archwood Group, visit www.archwoodgroup.com.

NOTES: The 20Twenty Business Growth Programme is the only leadership and management course in Wales to offer an optional progression route from CMI Level 4 to CMI Level 7, including a Postgraduate Certificate, an Executive MBA and Chartered Manager Award. The programme is delivered by Cardiff Metropolitan University in partnership with Bangor University and subsidised by the European Social Fund through the Welsh Government.

News

Ramblers Cymru and NHS join forces to promote the outdoors for mental health

“EVERYONE has their own Everest to climb.”

Ramblers Cymru is encouraging people to put their best foot forward and get outdoors to improve their mental health and wellbeing.

Supporting the Welsh Government and Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board (CTMUHB) Help Us Help You Campaign, the organisation urges residents of Aberdare, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Merthyr Tydfil, Bridgend, and surrounding areas to explore the picturesque paths, forests, coastal routes, and valleys that connect the region.

Ramblers Cymru Engagement and Communications Manager Brân Devey hopes people will join one of several local walking groups or meet safely outside with friends and family to combat isolation.

“Being active every day has been tough during this period, and for some it is a case of starting again, building confidence and literally putting one foot in front of the other,” he said.

“With the NHS under increased strain during the winter months it is important to be extra careful when out walking, to wear the correct footwear, wrap up warm and take the necessary equipment – know your limitations.

“And from a mindfulness and mental health perspective it is vital we keep active; going for a walk does the world of good and you can do so from your front door. It costs nothing and everyone has their own Everest, whether it’s a local mountain, a national park or coastal path.”

Originally from Bethesda, Snowdonia, but now based in Cardiff, Brân added: “Walking side by side with others where possible is a great way to share any problems you might have, to ask people how they’re doing and show you care, which could be crucial at the present time.

“All of this will help ease some of that pressure on our hospitals and GPs, but it doesn’t have to mean over-exertion. Enjoying the sights and sounds of the local area – the peace and tranquillity – will all play a part in helping you to relax.

“And in the CTMUHB area there are so many amazing places to visit, from the Coast Path to the Brecon Beacons, and the popular Bunny Walks in Llantrisant we helped set up with the Community Council and Taff Ely Ramblers group volunteers.

“As an organisation we have seen so many benefits, with people venturing outside with their family or ‘bubble’ to take a walk when they might not previously have done so. That’s one habit we hope to see continue because it does make a huge difference to health and mindfulness.”

Brian Morgan, chair of Taff Ely (Llantrisant) Ramblers reinforced the message and said: “There is no downside to going out and having a good walk, except perhaps the cold weather at this time of year!

“Our group is primarily made up of people over 60 but we have a few younger members and the enthusiasm to get back together and out rambling again after lockdown was incredible, we all could not wait to do so and welcomed some new people as well.”

He added: “Walking is good for you physically and mentally, you can make new friends, see amazing parts of this region and there are endless benefits.”

Paul Mears, Chief Executive of Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board echoed those words and said: “Even a short walk or physical activity outdoors can make a big difference in improving our wellbeing.

“Across this region we have so many beautiful walks of varying lengths and difficulty levels, so there is something for everyone. And as Brân says, taking a stroll will do the world of good in clearing the mind and introducing feelings of positivity while also having a positive impact on the heart, blood pressure and in supporting healthy weight management.

“It’s the perfect way to self-care and has been a lifeline for many families and individuals throughout the pandemic.”

Visit www.ramblers.org.uk/wales for more news and information from Ramblers Cymru, as well as details of walking groups and routes in your area.

If you are feeling low or struggling, contact the CALL Helpline for confidential listening and emotional support. Lines are open 24/7 on 0800 132 737 or text ‘help’ to 81066.

Please use the hashtags #HelpuNiHelpuChi and #HelpUsHelpYou to support the Help Us, Help You campaign.

News

Former students cook up a storm with new careers at college restaurant

COLEG CAMBRIA served up career opportunities for two talented former students.

Owain Jones and Bradley Wilford have joined the team at Cambria’s popular Ial Restaurant in Wrexham.

Owain, 21, is now working as a sous chef having completed the Level 3 Hospitality and Catering course at Yale. Chef de Partie Bradley, 20, is a graduate of the same diploma.

Both hit the ground running having gained valuable experience with head chef Barry Langston at the Wimbledon tennis championships last summer.

“I was here as a student when the restaurant opened, so to now be employed here is fantastic, it’s a great chance for me to progress alongside Bradley at a place we know so well,” said Owain, from Wrexham.

“I’ve worked at several venues across town and with the college but the offering here at Ial is second to none; the food, the atmosphere and feedback we’ve received from customers has been first class, so it’s the perfect place to learn the trade.”

Bradley, from Mold, added: “We’ve learnt so much since we started here and can push ourselves to get better and better with a supportive team around us in familiar surroundings.

“As the restaurant is getting busier and busier and more people are visiting regularly, that really boosts confidence. We also get to help the students who are in the same position we were not that long ago, so it’s very rewarding.”

With the hospitality sector facing recruitment challenges, Maria Stevens, Cambria’s Director of Commercial Operations, says they are in the fortunate position of being able to educate and train the next generation of chefs, front-of-house, and kitchen staff from within.

“We are fortunate to have a pool of talented young students who are learning on the job in a working kitchen which is getting busier by the week,” she said.

“Bradley and Owain have been terrific and are a great addition to the team – we wish them every success and would like to thank all of our customers for their support.”

For more information and make a reservation at Ial Restaurant, visit www.ialrestaurant.co.uk or call 01978 548818. 

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

News

North Wales college in pole position to support electric vehicle skills demand

COLEG CAMBRIA is in pole position to train the next generation of electric and hybrid vehicle mechanics.

Learners at the college’s sites in Deeside and Bersham Road, Wrexham, have been undertaking Hybrid/Electric Vehicle Repair 2 and 3 qualifications to meet unprecedented demand for skilled technicians to work on zero-emission transport.

And with new Knowledge and Practical programmes to be unveiled in 2022 – including Electrical Diagnostics, Electrical Testing, and Engine Management – Carl Black, Curriculum Director for Engineering, Automotive and Electrical Technical at Deeside said the time is now for independent garages to shift gears and join the trade’s ‘green revolution’.

“We have the facilities, the skills and the expertise to train students and those already working in the industry to meet the needs of motorists, now and in the future,” said Carl.

“Cambria’s teams at both Deeside and Bersham Road have all undergone extensive training in order to be able to deliver these courses, which is why we believe we are now at the forefront of education and training at a crucial time for the sector.”

He added: “The college has hybrid and full electric vehicles on-site and are in discussions with manufacturers to forge new partnerships to install further cutting-edge machinery and vehicles.

“The facilities are state-of-the-art and a reflection of the environments in which technicians are already working; as advances are made the college will match them to ensure we are always ready – this is a massive change for the automotive sector and will be for years to come.”

Lecturer Charles Jones agrees and says in addition to apprentices on the City and Guilds qualification, those already working in the trade can sign up for six-week programmes for free via the Welsh Government’s Personal Learning Account (PLA) programme.

“We are helping the sector prepare for that 2030 deadline from petrol and diesel to fossil-free travel,” he said.

“We have already trained around 40 people and there are many more who want to enrol but given health and safety restrictions and the hands-on nature of the course we have kept cohort numbers relatively small, so they get more out of it. The feedback has been very positive.”

Charles added: “The big names and dealerships in the automotive industry will train people in-house but there are hundreds of independent garages in this region that could be left behind. There is a skills gap, and we are helping to address it.”

Among those enjoying the Hybrid/Electric programme as part of their Level 3 Motor Vehicle course are Trinity Jones, from Buckley, and Bagillt’s Samuel Marshall.

“I was inspired to join the course after visiting an engine manufacturing plant, that spurred me on to do something in this industry. I love cars and mechanics – that’s where I see my future,” said Trinity, 18.

Samuel, 20, added: “I worked for a company in the trade to get experience and then decided to go back to college to learn more on the technical side. The move from petrol and diesel to hybrid/electrical is happening now so we are in the right place to learn more and prepare for a career in this industry.”

For more news and information, visit www.cambria.ac.uk.