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News

Future Lawyer Simona on Path to Success with City Apprenticeship

A FUTURE solicitor has passed her biggest test yet, securing a prestigious apprenticeship after excelling at Coleg Cambria.

Simona Kostova praised her time at the college – which has sites in Wrexham, Deeside, Llysfasi and Northop – after earning a solicitor degree apprenticeship.

Originally from Buckley and a former pupil at Elfed High School, Simona – whose family roots are in Bulgaria – studied at Cambria’s Deeside Sixth Form Centre, where she flourished with the encouragement of her lecturers.

She will now begin a six-year solicitor apprenticeship in Manchester, combining study with hands-on experience as a trainee. Her role will evolve from administrative tasks to managing her own cases, before qualifying as a solicitor.

With ambitions to specialise in fraud and fraudulent motor claims, Simona said: “I loved my time at Cambria – the support from staff and lecturers was incredible. I’m really looking forward to the challenge ahead, gaining my degree while also working in practice.”

Simona is one of several Deeside students celebrating their results and preparing for the next stage in education and employment.

Isabelle King achieved an A in Law, A* in Sociology, and A in Politics. Inspired by the range of opportunities and supportive teaching at Cambria, she is progressing to university to study Broadcast Journalism.

Alexander McLean earned an A* in Welsh, A in Politics, C in History and B in the Welsh Baccalaureate. A highlight of his time at Cambria was competing in the Urdd Eisteddfod, where he came second in the prestigious Medal y Dysgwr competition. He will now study Politics at university.

Sam Mawdsley excelled in Maths, Further Maths, Chemistry, Physics and the Welsh Baccalaureate, and is set to begin a Physics with Astrophysics degree at Lancaster University.

Mim Riddell, Head of Deeside Sixth and Assistant Principal for Academic Studies, said: “Simona and her peers are shining examples of what can be achieved through hard work, determination and the outstanding teaching at Coleg Cambria. We wish them all the best as they move forward into the next stage of their journeys.”

For more information on studying A Levels at Coleg Cambria, visit www.cambria.ac.uk, email admissions@cambria.ac.uk, call 0300 30 30 007, or use the Chat now! | Coleg Cambria Customer Support facility on the website.

News

Canoeing teenager eyes Olympic glory.. and school is behind him all the way

TALENTED teenager Toby Sutcliffe is making serious waves in the world of canoe slalom – and his school is behind him every stroke of the way.

The 15 year-old from Llanberis, a pupil at St Gerard’s School in Bangor, is currently ranked among the top five C1 slalom athletes in the UK for his age group.

A dedicated year-round paddler, Toby trains on Llyn Padarn and at the National Water Sports Centre in Nottingham and has competed in the Junior Slalom European Cup in France and Germany as part of the Welsh Performance Team.

He joined St Gerard’s aged seven and is about to start Year 11. Balancing elite sport with his GCSE studies, Toby says the school has played a key role in helping him chase his goals.

“My ultimate aim is to reach the highest national division, then Team GB,” said Toby said.

“I’d love to make it to the World Championships or the Olympics one day.

“The school has been so supportive — always helping me catch up or send me extra work when I’ve missed lessons to compete overseas. I’m really grateful.”

Toby’s passion for paddling began during the pandemic, after his previous interest in ski slalom was put on hold.

“We had access to the lake and tried a few local taster sessions,” said mum Vicki.

“From his very first go in a C1 canoe, he just lit up — the smile hasn’t left his face since.”

Dad Will added: “It’s great to see St Gerard’s backing young athletes. Their support and sponsorship for Toby have made a real difference and the sport needs new talent like him coming through.”

Toby is also finding success in kayak cross, a fast, contact-heavy race discipline that debuted at the 2024 Paris Olympics. He reached the semi-finals in Augsburg, Germany, and came third in a recent open event in Nottingham.

Sid Sinfield, Performance Manager at Paddle Cymru, said: “With a strong work ethic and a passion for canoe slalom, Toby is not only competing at a high level for his age but is also on a clear trajectory toward national and international success.

“As he continues to train, travel, and compete, support and sponsorship play a vital role in helping him reach his full potential.

“Funding enables access to top-level coaching, specialised equipment, and travel to key races across the UK and Europe – essential components in the development of a world-class athlete.

“St Gerard’s School’s backing of Toby is an opportunity to invest in the future of British canoeing and to support a driven young athlete with the talent and determination to go far.”

Headteacher Campbell Harrison added: “We’re proud of Toby and all our pupils as they chase their dreams.

“Whether in sport, academics, or the arts, St Gerard’s is committed to helping young people achieve their full potential — and we’re behind Toby all the way.”

For the latest news and information from St Gerard’s School, visit the website www.st-gerards.org and follow them on social media. 

Alternatively, email sgadmin@st-gerards.org or call 01248 351656.

News

Ace of Change: Dawes Honoured for Trailblazing Work in Tennis and Youth Leadership

AN INSPIRATIONAL figure in Welsh tennis and youth politics secured a raft of accolades following smash-hit success on and off the court.

Former Coleg Cambria A Level student Jonathon Dawes was recognised by King’s College London (KCL) – and the wider British sporting community – for his pioneering contribution to tennis development and grassroots inclusion.

The 22-year-old, from Rhyl – already the youngest member of the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) Council – received a Distinguished Alumni Award from KCL, following in the footsteps of illustrious names such as Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Olympian Dina Asher-Smith.

Having completed his A Levels at Cambria’s Deeside Sixth Form Centre in 2021 – where he achieved A*s in Government and Politics, Economics, PE and the Welsh Baccalaureate, and served as Student President – Jonathon moved to London to read Philosophy, Politics and Economics.

He has since returned to the college on several occasions to share his journey and inspire learners.

“It was Coleg Cambria that encouraged me to apply to university when I was considering other options, and I’m so glad they did,” he said.

“They nurtured my passion for tennis and gave me the confidence to think big.”

While at KCL, Jonathon spent two years on its tennis committee and served as President in his final year, setting out an “inclusive-by-design” vision to ensure every student could enjoy university life through tennis, increasing membership by 65% and securing a partnership with global brand, Wilson.

Even after graduating First-Class with Honours, he continued to volunteer with KCL Tennis, spearheading a programme which included its inaugural LGBTQ+ Tennis Festival.

In total, his post-graduation efforts have engaged 350+ students and unlocked more than £2,500 in new funding, while charity events have raised almost £1,000 for good causes.

Jonathon is currently completing an MA in Research Methods for Political Science at Durham University and will begin a PhD in September within the Department of Sport and Exercise Science, investigating politics and under-served communities in tennis.

“King’s College London is a world-leading university, so to be recognised at such a young age is a huge honour,” he said. “But this is only the beginning – I’m committed to making tennis more accessible for everyone, in Wales, the UK and beyond.”

Head of Deeside Sixth Form Centre Miriam Riddell said: “We are immensely proud of Jonathon – not only for his academic and sporting success, but for the dedication and warmth he shows others. He is a fantastic role model, and we look forward to welcoming him back later this year.”

Paul Brooks, Alumni Communications Manager of King’s College London added: “Our King’s Distinguished Alumni Awards celebrate the achievements of exceptional people who make the world a better place.

“Jonathon winning our Emerging Leader accolade should come as no surprise to anyone who’s in any way aware of his impressive list of achievements. His work in promoting inclusivity and encouraging under-represented groups into tennis, and other sports, is both inspiring and impressive.

“Everyone here is delighted to follow his ongoing success and achievements. This recognition from King’s is well-deserved. Forgive the pun, but both he and his achievements in tennis are truly ‘ace’.”

News

Community Leaders Unite to Shape £20m Regeneration Strategy for Welsh Seaside Favourite

Business owners, politicians, third-sector organisations, charities, council staff, health professionals, and others joined forces to begin crafting a £20 million strategy for a much-loved seaside town.

The Rhyl Neighbourhood Board hosted its first ‘thematic workshop’ at the town’s rugby club, bringing together around 40 key stakeholders and community leaders to explore investment opportunities and development goals for the next decade.

In attendance were representatives from the West Rhyl Young People’s Project, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Denbighshire County Council, Clwyd North MP Gill German, Vale of Clwyd MS Gareth Davies, the Citizens Advice Bureau, Willow Collective, DVSC (Denbighshire Voluntary Services Council), Rhyl City Strategy, FSB, North Wales Police, Rhyl History Club, Working Denbighshire, and various retail, hospitality, and housing sector figures.

Discussions focused on four main themes: Regeneration, High Streets and Heritage and Transport; Housing and Safety and Security; Health, Wellbeing and Work Productivity and Skills; and Education, Opportunity and Cohesion.

Led by Savills Director and Strategic Advisor Nick Bennett, the day was designed to identify priorities and opportunities that will underpin the £20 million Our Rhyl/Ein Rhyl regeneration programme, aligned with UK Government objectives around economic growth and long-term sustainability.

“The plan for regeneration is for people of all ages in the town, so it’s important – especially given the population of Rhyl is bucking national trends and rising – that all voices are heard,” said Nick.

“The funding is £20m over 10 years but we hope to leverage more via the public and private sectors, and we ultimately must decide where this investment goes and how it is spent, which is why today is so important.

“Whether the priorities are education and skills, health and wellbeing, housing, the environment, transport, crime prevention or any number of any other themes, we must come up with creative and innovative proposals.

“We have a fantastic cross-section of individuals and organisations here to do that, so I’m excited to see how the next few months unfold.”

Gill German MP echoed this sentiment, stating: “We must make the most of this brilliant town, and to do so the input of everyone here will be vital.”

Gareth Davies MS added: “The funding from UK Government is great but it is important there is a collaborative approach and synergy between stakeholders in the local area. I look forward to these conversations.”

A broad array of proposals and target areas emerged from the session, including the expansion of green spaces, support for small businesses, improved housing, enhanced street safety, and prioritising health “as an outcome for all projects.” Attendees also emphasised making the most of Rhyl’s promenade and “beautiful beach” described as “among the very best in North Wales.”

Nadeem Ahmad, Board member and owner of Jean Emporium, said: “Making a difference for the retail landscape in the high street and town centre is long overdue, we want to improve the visitor experience for residents and tourists. We need to make this work. We need to deliver.”

Simon Jones of the Kite Surf Café Bar added: “I see Rhyl very much as a destination. We get thousands of customers every week in the summer. I have a passion and love for the beach; it is one of the town’s greatest USPs.”

Reflecting on the workshop, Board chair Craig Sparrow described it as a “brilliant first step” towards developing “a proper strategic plan” that could have a lasting positive impact.

“We have had some brilliant ideas that will make a real difference and attract investment, so we can turn that £20m into £40m or more and boost the local economy,” he said.

“This is an area that has so much potential, and that spirit has been captured today.”

To find out more about Ein Rhyl/Our Rhyl, visit www.sirddinbych.gov.uk/bwrdd-cymdogaeth-y-rhyl (Welsh) or www.denbighshire.gov.uk/rhyl-neighbourhood-board (English), and follow @einrhyl and @ourrhyl on Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

News

Oscar winner on Wales, winning the Academy Award and future projects

Wales has played a big part in Lol Crawley’s incredible journey to Oscar glory.

The celebrated cinematographer grew up in Powys and studied for a BTEC National Diploma in Audio Visual Studies at NEWI Cartrefle in Wrexham – now Coleg Cambria. He’s since expressed heartfelt thanks to the lecturers and classmates who helped shape his early steps in the industry.

Just a few weeks ago, Lol picked up an Academy Award for the sweeping period drama The Brutalist, after already nabbing a BAFTA and an award from the British Society of Cinematographers for the same film.

It’s the third time he’s teamed up with director Brady Corbet – and with a fourth project already in the pipeline, there’s clearly more magic to come. For now though, Lol is soaking up the praise and enjoying the spotlight.

“I had just the one year studying in Wrexham and it was a long time ago, but I have many fond memories,” said Lol.

“I did the foundation course and then worked that summer as a camera assistant on a movie called The Englishman Who Went up a Hill but Came down a Mountain in Wales before moving on to Northumbria University and later making short films.

“However, my first feature as a cinematographer was Ballast in 2008, for which I won an award at The Sundance Film Festival. After that I was on my way.”

He added: “It would be lovely to return home one day and do something in North and Mid-Wales, it’s a beautiful part of the world and to film there would be fantastic.”

The Brutalist stars Adrien Brody, who took home his second Best Actor Oscar for his role as a Hungarian-Jewish Holocaust survivor and architect. The story follows his journey from post-war Europe to the U.S., where he fights to realize the American Dream – until a wealthy client steps in and changes his path.

Lol was especially praised for choosing to shoot the film on VistaVision – the first English-language feature to do so since the early ‘60s – and he’s thrilled that the creative risk paid off.

“It’s been great, the whole build-up began last year, and I am so happy and grateful to receive these awards, it’s been quite remarkable,” he said.

“There has been a lot of buzz but funnily enough the next two movies to be released that I shot were completed before the Oscars, so they may not be what people expect after winning the award.

“But I am reading great scripts with great filmmakers, and I will be doing Brady’s next film so it’s a very exciting time, he’s as ambitious as ever so I’m looking forward to that.”

This isn’t Lol’s first brush with critically acclaimed work. He’s racked up an impressive list of credits, and a recent feature on The Playlist called out his “amazing filmmaking career” and said he’s “staking his claim at being one of the best in the world.”

Among the many titles he’s worked on are Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, Four Lions, White Noise, Black Mirror, Vox Lux, The Childhood of a Leader, One Night in Turin, and Shadow Kingdom: The Early Songs of Bob Dylan.

As for advice to current students at Coleg Cambria or aspiring filmmakers across Wales?

“In a sense it’s probably an easier world now, as when I started it was very expensive and there was no real digital filmmaking, the technology has become more accessible and less elitist,” he said.

“I guess if they were going to take anything away from this it would be just to go out there and do it, to believe in themselves and crack on and work hard.

“It’s not easy but if you don’t get off the starting blocks because you believe it can’t happen then you’ve failed at the first hurdle.”

For the latest from Coleg Cambria, visit www.cambria.ac.uk.

To learn more about Lol Crawley, visit Lol Crawley, BSC | Director of Photography.

PIC CREDIT: ALAMY 

Education

Student duo a force to be reckoned with after winning awards for new clothing range

ENTERPRISING students are aiming high after reaching the finals of a regional business competition.

Coleg Cambria learners Dylan Morris and Henry Garner won the Young Enterprise North Wales event at Wrexham University with their innovative new activewear and lifestyle brand – MountForce.

They were victorious in the Judges Award and Company Programme categories and will now contest the Welsh finals in Cardiff next month (May), having impressed with their presentation and positive attitudes.

The Level 1 Business, Travel and Events students are confident of future success and taking their start-up venture “to the next level”.

“We were up against A Level Business students from schools in North Wales, so we are delighted to have won,” said Dylan, 18, from Wrexham.

“We prepared a lot and worked hard to build up our brand before looking at the product, manufacturing and strategy, which ultimately paid off, though there are some areas we will be looking to improve in time for Cardiff.

“While this was fantastic for the competition, we really believe in MountForce as a clothing and lifestyle range and are committed to taking it forward alongside our studies and look forward to the national finals.”

Henry, 17, from Penyffordd, added: “As well as the products we want to build a community, a positive space for health and wellbeing as well as sports and exercise.

“Our goal is not just to sell clothing, it’s to provide information, help our customers and build momentum on and offline.

“Winning the competition has given us the belief we are moving in the right direction, so we thank Young Enterprise and the college for the opportunity and for giving us the tools and skills to succeed.”

Lecturer Viktoriya Hughes praised them for the diligence, creativity and dedication shown in preparing for the Young Enterprise event.

“I could not be prouder of them for winning the North Wales final,” she said.

“Dylan and Henry worked hard and demonstrated a fantastic level of determination and commitment.

“The Young Enterprise programme offered a great opportunity to develop their entrepreneurial skills which resulted in their successful win.

“This is a fantastic achievement for our students and a great representation of Coleg Cambria – well done to you both!”

For more on Young Enterprise, visit YE North Wales – Young Enterprise & Young Money.

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

Follow @mountforceuk on Instagram for the latest on Dylan and Henry’s business journey.

News

Education Minister launches new state-of-the-art ‘inclusive kitchen’ at leading college

COLEG CAMBRIA launched a state-of-the-art new training kitchen in partnership with The Savoy Educational Trust.

The cutting-edge facility was part-funded by the Trust and is located alongside Iâl Restaurant in the college’s £21m Hafod building in Wrexham.

Officially unveiled by Vikki Howells MS, Minister for Further and Higher Education, the ‘inclusive kitchen’ reinforces Cambria’s commitment to deliver accessible opportunities for all and help train the next generation of professionals in the hospitality sector.

Maria Stevens, Head of Commercial Operations at Coleg Cambria, said: “We are proud to celebrate our partnership with the Savoy Educational Trust, a collaboration that has helped bring to life the state-of-the-art, inclusive training kitchen here at Yale.

“This exciting development marks a significant milestone in our commitment to high-quality, accessible education in hospitality and catering, ensuring all learners have the opportunity to develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the industry.

“Thanks to Trust’s generous part-funding of this project, the college can now offer a modern learning environment equipped with cutting-edge facilities designed to meet the needs of all learners, including those with additional support requirements.

“By working closely with the Trust, Coleg Cambria is ensuring the next generation of hospitality professionals in North Wales and beyond receive the very best training, preparing them for rewarding careers in an evolving industry.”

Work-based Learning Manager Kate Muddiman added: “This fantastic facility will allow us to expand our offering with specialist workshops for employers and their staff, including knife skills, baking, and sausage-making workshops.

“We are deeply grateful to the Savoy Educational Trust for their support in helping us elevate hospitality training to the next level.”

The Savoy Educational Trust was established in 1961 and has a long history of championing education and training within the hospitality sector.

As an independent charitable trust, they are committed to funding initiatives that enhance learning opportunities in catering and hospitality, equipping individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the industry.

Through grant giving, they support projects that improve facilities, provide hands-on training, and inspire the next generation of hospitality professionals.

The Trust’s Chief Executive Angela Maher said: “We are committed to supporting high quality, accessible education that nurtures the future of hospitality and are proud to help fund Coleg Cambria’s state-of-the art training kitchen, ensuring every learner, regardless of background or ability, has the opportunity to develop industry ready skills, achieve qualifications, and be inspired to pursue a career in the hospitality sector.

“This project highlights our joint dedication to outstanding hospitality education and inspiring future talent.”

Visit Savoy Educational Trust – Development of education, training and qualifications for the benefit the UK hospitality industry for more information.

For the latest news and information from Coleg Cambria, visit www.cambria.ac.uk.

News

Award-winning organic farm owner talks turkey ahead of Christmas event series

RHUG ESTATE will present customers and visitors with a series of pre-Christmas gifts over the coming weeks.

The 12,500-acre farm estate, based near Corwen in North Wales, is celebrating the yuletide holidays with a packed programme of events and activities for all the family to enjoy.

And there are hundreds of the Estate’s award-winning free range organic turkeys up for grabs, as well as a selection of festive meats and hampers including the popular Christmas garnish packs, beef roasting joints and the epic ‘ultimate weekend meat box’ complete with wine, beers, crisps, cheese and crackers.

First up in the calendar is the Christmas Fair and Santa’s Grotto, over two days beginning Saturday December 7, followed by the Rhug Chapel Carol Service and late-night shopping on Thursday December 12.

Rhug Estate owner Lord Newborough hopes to see more stallholders sign up for the fair and looks forward to welcoming new and loyal customers in the run up to December 25.

“There is something for everyone at Rhug during the festive period, whether you’re looking for quality, organic produce and products for the holidays or an escape with the family to join in our celebrations,” he said.

“It is a special time of year as the atmosphere here is so warm and welcoming, we really get into the spirit of things and the farm shop team are well prepared and well stocked to ensure you have the most incredible Christmas.”

Lord Newborough added: “We look forward to seeing you all and encourage anyone planning to pre-book one of our organic turkeys to do so as soon as possible to avoid missing out.

“They are so sought-after even Michelin-starred restaurants have them on their festive menus, as they have so much texture, flavour and cook faster than conventional turkeys.”

With orders coming in from as far away as Singapore and Hong Kong, the raft of offers and items on sale at Rhug ensure they have you covered when planning what for many is the most important meal of the year.

There are initiatives and incentives for loyalty card holders, digital gift cards, vouchers to spend in-store, and a gift-wrapping service.

Black Friday deals have led to a surge in interest and Lord Newborough says this could be their busiest Christmas yet.

“We are signing up artisan traders and producers from across the region and beyond to the Christmas fair, and it would be great to see even more join us as it’s an event which brings in visitors from near and far,” he added.

“It’s all systems go from now until the big day, but we wouldn’t have it any other way and can’t wait to welcome you all to Rhug Estate very soon.”

For more information and to book your place at one of Rhug’s Christmas events, visit www.rhug.co.uk. Follow them on social media at @rhugestate.

To pre-book your turkey in time for Christmas, call 01490 413000, email contact@rhug.co.uk or visit the website: Rhug Estate Organic Turkey – Thanksgiving & Christmas Delivery | Rhug Estate.