First cohort of work based learners graduate

Lee Rowberry, SkillsActive - 19/06/09

Students from Rumney High School, Llanrumney High School, Fitzalan High School, Cantonian High School and St David’s College received their awards in front of a number of employers involved in the programme, including Cardiff City Football Club, Cardiff Council Leisure Centres and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

The awards were presented by Tony Duggan and Damien Quinn from South Wales-based Super League side, the Celtic Crusaders. The Celtic Crusaders are the only Welsh professional rugby league side and have risen to the Super League following three excellent seasons, having only been formed in 2006.

Launched in Cardiff in September 2007, the WBLP in Sports Management, Leadership and coaching allows students aged 14 to 16 to combine their school-based lessons with a blend of vocational qualifications and 300 hours of work experience, gaining an insight into the range of career opportunities within the sports industry. The innovative programme, which takes two years to complete, was developed by SkillsActive in partnership with Cardiff’s 14-19 Network, VT Training, Sporttrain, Cardiff County Council and five secondary schools in Cardiff.

SkillsActive chief executive, Stephen Studd, said: “The pathway programme is unique in that it has been set up to help students attain qualifications, acquire the skills and also to gain the experience you need to pursue a fulfilling career in sport and leisure.

“After students have completed their Work Based Learning Pathway, they have the opportunity to progress onto an apprenticeship programme, further their education or enter the world of work. The programme really does open doors for those interested in a career in what is one of the most vibrant and fast growing sectors in the UK.

“On behalf of SkillsActive, I’d like to congratulate all the graduates for their hard work and dedication over the past two years. With enthusiastic, skilled individuals like these, the future of our sector looks to be in very capable hands.”

Llanrumney High School student Owain Bergelin (16) attended the celebration event and was awarded 'Learner of the Year' for his enthusiasm and outstanding commitment to learning. He said: “I chose the Work Based Learning Pathway to gain extra qualifications, knowledge and experience of working in the leisure industry. The programme has given me independence and I’ve enjoyed being treated like an adult and a professional. I also enjoyed the BTEC and NVQ elements of the programme, as it makes what we do on work placement real and I can see where it all fits into place.”

For his work experience, Owain worked three days a week at Eastern Leisure Centre where he coached and refereed football sessions, set up equipment for activities, completed a swimming coaching course and assisted with swimming sessions.

“I loved my work experience and was treated like a real member of the staff. I am a lot more confident in dealing with people now and have learnt how to adapt to different situations and act professionally. I’ve really developed as a coach too and have more knowledge of the industry.”

Owain has since been offered part-time work at the leisure centre, where he will continue to work while continuing his college studies. After college, Owain hopes to go to university to study a sports-related degree.

VT Training – a global organisation providing training opportunities for staff and individuals – works with SkillsActive to deliver the pathway across the local authority area.

Gareth James, regional manager for VT Training, said: “We’re delighted with the success of the programme. It’s our remit to source and coordinate work placements for the 14 to16 year-olds who are following the programme, and then assess each learner’s progress as they work through the NVQ.

“It’s hugely gratifying to see the benefits of wider learning options in practice as young people take their first steps in rewarding careers. By working in partnership, all those involved are making dreams a reality by offering exciting, yet realistic, goals and the means for young people to attain them.”