COLEG CAMBRIA and its industry partners achieved more individual medals than ever before at this year’s prestigious Skills Competition Wales.

Across 16 categories, the college – based in Wrexham, Northop, Deeside and Llysfasi – secured an outstanding 24 top three places. This included five golds, eight silvers and 11 bronze medals.

Receiving gold medals were Leo Jones (Lloyd Morris Electrical Ltd – Electrical Installation), Robert Jones (Airbus – Aeronautical Engineering), Dylan Rosedale-Blackwell (Deeside – Inclusive Skills: Automotive Technology), Mark Wright (International Crusher Solutions Ltd – Construction Metalwork), and Rodrigo Da Silva (Yale – IT Support Technician).

Learner Experience and Enterprise Manager Rona Griffiths praised the learners for their commitment in balancing preparation for the competition with their work and studies.

“I am especially thrilled for our for Inclusive Skills medal winners, Foundation students who have really excelled in three different categories,” said Rona.

“Every year we are so proud to have a skilled, dedicated group of apprentices and students who represent Coleg Cambria with pride and passion.

“On behalf of the college and their employers, thank you and congratulations – these results, as always, are incredible.”

Competitions were held throughout January and February, with experts evaluating participants based on industry standards and criteria.

The celebration event was held last night (Thursday) at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Newport, with virtual ‘watch parties’ taking place at satellite sites across the country.

This year saw record numbers of interest and registrations for Skills Competition Wales, with over 1,400 competitors across 64 competitions being represented by more than 75 different organisations across Wales, including colleges, employers, and training providers.

“We are immensely proud of all the participants who showcased their talents and skills,” said Emma Banfield, Project Manager at Inspiring Skills Wales.

“The ceremony was a proud occasion for us to celebrate their achievements and honour the dedication they have shown in their respective fields.

“We believe in the power of skills to transform lives and drive economic growth in Wales. Skills Competition Wales is a testament to the incredible talent we have in our nation, and we are committed to nurturing and supporting these talents for a brighter future.”

For more information about Skills Competition Wales and upcoming events, visit the website inspiringskills.gov.wales/skills-competition-wales or follow @ISEinWales on Twitter and Instagram.

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

COLEG CAMBRIA and Read Construction are laying the foundations for future generations of workers in the building sector.

The award-winning Wrexham-based developer has supported the first cohort of BTEC Level 3 Technical Construction and Built Environment learners as part of its Placement Enhanced Programme, funded via the Welsh Government’s Innovation Fund.

Among them were Lois Jones and Josh Jones, who spent time on the college’s £10m Llysfasi development and at Read’s headquarters over a period of months.

Lois, from Wrexham, says the experience confirmed her future lies in the construction industry.

“My dad works in the plastering trade, so I’ve grown up in that world and always been around it,” said the 17 year-old former St Joseph’s High School pupil, who last year won a gold award for Enterprise at Skills Competition Wales.

“I wanted to follow in his footsteps and after achieving a Level 2 and now a Level 3 at Bersham Road, I know this is what I want to do with my career.

“My aim now is to try and secure an apprenticeship in design or architecture, as that’s where I see myself.

“I’ve enjoyed every minute, it’s has been brilliant to see the different aspects of how construction works, and how the company operates, so I’m really thankful to Coleg Cambria and Read Construction for the opportunity.”

Read Construction’s Improvement and Engagement Manager Kasia Williamson said they were “delighted” to have supported the initial trial of the Placement Enhanced Programme and have plans to welcome new learners from Cambria this year.

“At Read, we believe it is important to provide a platform that will inspire the next generation of workers and support people in their transition from education into the world of work,” she added.

“Opportunities like this ensure students are best placed to start their careers, whilst also addressing the skills shortage.

“It was fantastic to have Lois and Josh join the Read team for their placements as part of this new programme, and we are looking forward to welcoming more students in the future.”

Backed with more than £5.9m from the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme, the new Llysfasi development will include a state-of-the-art, 1095 square metre carbon-neutral education complex complete with classroom and meeting spaces, a coffee shop, HE centre, wellbeing hub and more.

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

For more on Read Construction, visit the website: www.readconstruction.co.uk.

INDUSTRY leaders are signing up to a bitesize course that demystifies the revolutionary world of artificial intelligence (AI).

Coleg Cambria’s new sector-driven Generative AI for Business programme is a comprehensive three-hour introduction to the groundbreaking AI tools that can generate quality text, images and relevant content based on inputted data and information.

Cambria’s Director of Business Solutions Nigel Holloway says the training is flexible, bespoke and is already gaining a positive response in north east Wales and beyond.

“We can deliver the course anywhere and have already done so on-site at several companies in this region, who found it interesting and informative,” said Nigel.

“As it’s only three hours we can demonstrate the technology and they can replicate it, so this is a very interactive offering and we go in with all the equipment needed for small and large groups, which is an attractive proposition from the feedback we’ve had so far.”

Trainers will delve into the essentials of generative Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT and give examples of AI, the impact it can have on operations and trade, and how to stay at the forefront of advances in the technology.

Themes include practical business applications, from content creation to data analysis, while also addressing the strengths, limitations, and ethics relevant to AI deployments.

The course concludes with insights on effective implementation strategies and a glimpse into the future of generative AI in the business landscape.

Cambria – which has sites in Wrexham, Llysfasi, Northop and Deeside – will be introducing a part-time version of the programme at its Yale college from September.

The cost of the three-hour course is £299 or Employer Skills North Wales funding is available for relevant organisations, a grant scheme allowing employers in Anglesey, Gwynedd, Conwy, Flintshire, and Wrexham to access cutting edge skills, and shorter, specialist training programmes.

“AI is very high profile, but a lot of people are still a little unsure on some of the detail and how it can benefit them, so we can help bridge those gaps and show what value it can bring to multiple industries,” said Nigel.

“Funding is available which means this will be free to many businesses – we hope they will capitalise on the opportunity and it’s a simple accessible gateway to exploring how AI can help them, now and in the future.”

Meanwhile, the college has been announced a recipient of a CyberFirst School and College Award for its continued dedication to Computing and Cyber Education.

To register your interest in the Generative AI for Business programme, email nigel.holloway@cambria.ac.uk, or call 0300 30 30 007.

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

COLEG CAMBRIA students have secured new jobs after completing a prestigious forestry programme.

Tilhill, the UK’s leading woodland creation, forest management and timber harvesting company, and Foresight Sustainable Forestry Company Plc announced the completion of their Foresight Sustainable Forestry Skills Training Programme in Wales and Scotland.

Launched in 2022, the programme aimed to help young people in rural Wales gain employment opportunities in forestry by providing training, health and safety equipment and mentoring. Due to its success, it was extended into Scotland for the following year’s candidate intake.

The UK is experiencing a critical forestry skills shortage as it strives to meet tree planting targets to combat climate change and meet the increasing demand for homegrown timber.

In 2023, approximately 80% of all timber used in the UK was imported, making the country the third-largest global timber importer – highlighting a clear need to upskill and expand the forestry contractor workforce.

Over 70 applicants applied for the latest course and the 10 selected candidates have now completed their fully funded training at Coleg Cambria Llysfasi and SRUC Barony College, Dumfries.

The trainees, Ynyr Roberts, Brychan Edwards, Rhys Ap Gwyndaf, and Bedwyr Roberts from Wales have been employed by Tilhill as contractors to carry out planting works in its woodland creation sites.

David Edwards, Tilhill’s Forestry Director said: “It brings great pleasure to be able to welcome 10 newly qualified people into the forest industry in Scotland and Wales.

“Tilhill is very proud to have partnered with Coleg Cambria Llysfasi to deliver this programme which has truly upskilled these candidates in a variety of forestry related activities ensuring a strong foundation for their future careers within the forest industry.”

Andy White, Lead Forestry Lecturer at Coleg Cambria Llysfasi, added: “The Foresight Sustainable Forestry Skills Training Programme is a fantastic opportunity for young people looking for a start in the forestry industry.

“This year’s successful students have been lucky enough to receive training and qualifications in a wide range of practical forestry skills including tree felling and chainsaw use, first aid, strimmer, brush-cutter and clearing saw use, tractor driving and operation, and pesticide application.

“New blood is in short supply within forestry, so this programme is particularly welcome by encouraging new entrants, and providing the basics they need to get started.

“The generosity of Foresight in funding these courses, and providing all the necessary PPE, demonstrates their commitment to ‘growing their own’ new generation of foresters of the future.”

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

“Teamwork, organisation, and resilience are all skills Coleg Cambria has gifted us. Take every skill you have learned during your time here into your future careers and personal lives as they are absolutely invaluable.”

The words of former student Lauren Baker rang out around Coleg Cambria’s Northop Business School on Friday, as she joined up to 50 learners who had completed Higher National and professional qualifications for this year’s University Centre graduation ceremony.

Lauren completed an Airbus apprenticeship scheme undertaking the BSc in Applied Business Management at Cambria in December, and now works as a Tactical Planner on the Single Aisle Programme Planning Structures Team at the aerospace giant’s wing-making factory in Broughton.

She praised the college for its support and congratulated the higher education cohorts on their “perseverance” and “resilience”.

“Whilst further and higher education is challenging, Coleg Cambria enables you to realise it is possible to achieve your goals and succeed,” said Lauren.

“Speaking to friends and colleagues who have not attended the college makes you realise that you don’t get this level of support elsewhere.

“The elevated engagement between students and their teaching staff inevitably maximises their potential to succeed. This was highlighted by many of you, and I fed this back when I was the lead student for the college in the QAA review – another great opportunity for me.”

She added: “I am very grateful to have been given this opportunity to congratulate you all and hopefully I have given you some advice that you can take forward into your future with you and inspire you to believe that you can do anything that you put your mind to.”

Opening the ceremony, Cambria’s Principal Sue Price praised the graduating learners and thanked the family and friends who supported them on their journey to academic success.

“This is the perfect way to help you celebrate your achievements, I hope you have a wonderful time” she added.

Among the courses and programmes represented on the day were the AAT Level 4 Professional Diploma in Accounting, the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) Level 4 Certificate in Leadership and Management, the ILM Level 4 Diploma in Leadership and Management, and the Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management.

Students who achieved the Level 4 HNC in Construction, Built Environment, HND in Construction and the Built Environment, CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management, the Higher National Certificate in Animal Management, and the Level 5 HND in Animal Management were also celebrated.

Emma Hurst, Dean of Higher Education and Access to HE at Cambria, said: “Today must be a very proud day for you all, and we share this pride with you.

“We’d like to thank all our staff for supporting our learners along the way, and to our governors too. Congratulations to all our learners who are celebrating today, you should be very proud of your achievements.”

Follow the hashtag #CUCCelebration and @colegcambria on social media. 

You can watch a video of the graduation ceremony here: CUC Graduation Video (youtube.com) 

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

COLEG CAMBRIA will showcase its wide range of courses and cutting-edge facilities at a series of open events this Spring.

The accessible sessions will take place on the following dates at these sites:

Deeside and Deeside Sixth – Wednesday March 6 from 5pm-7pm.

Llysfasi – Saturday March 9 from 10am-12pm.

Yale and Yale Sixth Wrexham – Wednesday March 13 from 5pm-7pm.

Bersham Road Wrexham – Wednesday March 13 from 5pm-7pm.

Northop – Saturday March 16 from 10am-12pm.

As well as in-person workshops, presentations, and talks with expert tutors and lecturers, those unable to attend can log on to the website and access 3D tours of each campus.

Staff will be on hand to discuss a range of topics, from apprenticeships and HE pathways to equality and diversity, funding, part-time study, bilingual learning, and more.

Principal Sue Price said the college – which has more than 26,000 full- and part-time students – continues to go from strength to strength.

“Our open events are always well attended and insightful for not only prospective learners but also their families,” she said.

“It gives us the opportunity to demonstrate how many choices there are, the links we have with industry and the part Cambria plays in supporting students on the journey to their chosen career.”

Mrs Price added: “We encourage people to book ahead and while at the college to visit as many areas as they can, to explore what’s on offer and get a flavour of the whole experience, from the modern, state-of-the-art facilities to the variety of qualifications on offer – we look forward to seeing you soon.”

For more information and to watch a video with top tips on how to get the best out of open events, visit the website: www.cambria.ac.uk/campaigns/openevents.

Alternatively, follow Coleg Cambria on social media, call 0300 30 30 007 or email studentservices@cambria.ac.uk.

THE £10m redevelopment of a leading land-based college is set for completion this autumn.

Backed with more than £5.9m from the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Communities for Learning Programme, Coleg Cambria is transforming its land-based campus at Llysfasi, near Ruthin.

Following the opening of its £1.2m rural education centre three years ago, a new state-of-the-art, 1095 square metre carbon-neutral education complex is currently being built by Wrexham-based Read Construction.

Modern facilities will include classroom and meeting spaces, a coffee shop, HE centre, wellbeing hub and more.

Head of Llysfasi Elin Roberts said: “Everything is on track for the buildings to be finished in September, ready for the next academic year.

“The investment Coleg Cambria has made at Llysfasi demonstrates its commitment to both academia and our local community, as well as supporting the agriculture sector in North Wales and beyond.”

She added: “We are so excited to see these plans come alive, it’s an exciting time for the college and the farming industry, and we will be at the forefront of that.”

As well as the new build the overall revamp at Llysfasi includes landscaping and forest walks, and there will be bilingual information events and advice sessions to mentor local farmers looking to diversify and develop their own commercial processes.

Up to 30 workers are on-site, with that number set to increase in the coming weeks when the roof installation begins.

Site Manager Paul Izzard is pleased with progress and privileged to be leading the project.

“Despite recent challenges with the storms and bad weather we are on course to complete the building this September,” he said.

“Our staff and sub-contractors have worked hard over the winter to ensure that happens, and we will be bringing more trades in this Spring to continue that momentum.

“In partnership with the college we are delighted to be a part of what will be such an important education facility for students and the farming community here in the Vale of Clwyd.”

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

For more on Read Construction, visit the website: www.readconstruction.co.uk.

A NEW-LOOK tourism qualification will help breathe life into the sector and train the next generation of hospitality workers.

Delivered by Coleg Cambria, the FdA in Tourism and Hospitality Management has been revamped to meet the demands of the industry post-Covid.

Learners can study for two years at the college’s Yale site in Wrexham before completing a third ‘top-up year’ on the BA (Hons) International Tourism Management degree or a related course at Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU).

Programme Lead Angharad Jarvis said a wide range of careers are out there for graduates, and more opportunities than ever before in a variety of roles, from restaurant managers and bar staff to leisure park attendants, travel consultants, event organisers and more.

“The course is designed to promote and instil the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in tourism and hospitality, and I think many people are unaware of how many different options there are,” said Angharad.

“Of course, there are positions in traditional roles, but also marketing, IT, social media, management and a multitude of roles at venues across Wales and beyond.

“The sector has faced challenges but is one of the most important in the UK – especially here in North Wales and the North West – and it is an exciting and rewarding arena to be a part of.”

Angharad revealed the programme team has forged links with employers across the region – notably Chester Racecourse, The Lemon Tree hotel and restaurant in Wrexham, and Pale Hall in Bala – and work placements will be a key factor, as will the college’s popular Ial Restaurant in the £20m Hafod building at Yale.

The link with LJMU will also be critical in supporting learners to “the next level” and preparing them for the world of work.

Modules include Welsh Tourism, Food and Beverage Management in Hospitality, Introduction to International Tourism, Event Planning, Employability Skills, Responsible Tourism and Sustainability, and Academic Skills and Digital Literacy.

“Students are able to start their higher education journey at Cambria and develop the skills, knowledge and understanding for Level 4 and Level 5,” said Angharad.

“They are then able to fit straight in with LJMU learners at their campus and continue their Level 6 studies to complete a BA in their chosen area, which could be anything from Event Management to International Tourism.”

She added: “We have a holistic approach to the delivery, which is helping our learners to achieve their goals, and on top of that they can complete extra studies such as the Wrexham Ambassador Awards Bronze and Silver, as well as supporting local charities.

“We start with the end goal, which is a future in tourism and hospitality – it’s an exciting time to be joining us and we look forward to welcoming the next cohort later this year.”

For more information and to apply, visit www.cambria.ac.uk.