Careers Wales event helps young people from west Wales

A number of employers from across west Wales recently took part in an event to support pupils with additional learning needs in exploring career options.

Elena Waters-Jenkins (left), future workforce operational manager at Hywel Dda University Health Board (Image: Careers Wales)

The “What Next? Choose Your Future” event, delivered by Careers Wales in collaboration with Queen Elizabeth High School, was held in Carmarthen on Tuesday, January 27.

More than 200 pupils from Years 10 to 14 attended from special schools and specialist units across Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire, and Ceredigion.

Rebecca Thomas, a business engagement adviser at Careers Wales, said: "Events like this play a vital role in helping young people with additional learning needs to build confidence, gain motivation and feel excited about their future.

Pupils attend Bute Energy workshop (Image: Careers Wales)

"The chance to meet real employers and try hands-on activities makes career opportunities feel more achievable and real."

Students took part in hands-on activities and met employers offering insights into jobs, apprenticeships, training, and further education pathways.

Pupils could also join themed classroom workshops led by employers, providing practical and engaging experiences.

Pupils attend cooking workshop with Castell Howell (Image: Careers Wales)

A teacher from Ysgol Bro Teifi said: "The practical sessions were great as were the stalls.

"Thank you for the experiences."

Among those giving positive feedback was a Year 11 pupil, who said: "I liked meeting the different employers today."

A Year 10 pupil added: "I’d like more events like this."

Employers at the event included Dyfed Powys Police, Hywel Dda University Health Board, Big Ideas Wales, and Coleg Sir Gâr.

Pupils interact with employers (Image: Careers Wales)

Elena Waters-Jenkins, future workforce operational manager at Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: "Events like this are so important because they let us meet young people before they make decisions about their future.

"We want them to know the NHS isn’t just doctors and nurses - there are more than 350 different job roles available."

Gareth Hicks, branch manager at Monmouthshire Building Society, said: "These events are really important because they give young people a real understanding of what’s out there and the chance to ask questions.

"Seeing how they interact face‑to‑face is brilliant.

"It’s nice to help them open up and get chatting."