NPTC Group of Colleges Full-time Courses 23/24 - South

Afan College

Margam, Port Talbot, SA13 2AL

Brecon Beacons College

Penlan, Brecon, LD3 9SR

Llandarcy Academy of Sport

Llandarcy Park, Skewen, Neath, SA10 6JD

Maesteg Construction Centre of Excellence Unit 7, Spelter Industrial Estate, Maesteg, CF34 0TY

Neath College

Dŵr-y-Felin Road, Neath, SA10 7RF

Newtown College

Llanidloes Road, Newtown, SY16 4HU

Pontardawe College

Tawe House, Alloy Industrial Estate, Pontardawe, SA8 4EZ

Swansea Construction Centre St David’s Close, Swansea Enterprise Zone, Llansamlet, Swansea, SA6 8QL

General Enquiries

enquiries@nptcgroup.ac.uk

This publication is printed using environmentally friendly vegetable mineral oil-based inks on FSC® Certified paper from sustainable sources.

This prospectus gives details on all full-time, academic and vocational programmes. For details on all other courses offered by NPTC Group of Colleges, please check out our website: www.nptcgroup.ac.uk

Information contained within this prospectus was correct at the time of production. NPTC Group of Colleges reserves the right to alter or cancel courses where circumstances demand. Every student is guaranteed equality of opportunity and access to programmes appropriate to their needs.

We know that choosing your next steps can seem daunting but we’ll be with you from day one, every day and every step of the way – so we want you to think big!

NPTC Group of Colleges can promise you an excellent learning experience within a dynamic, supportive College that has superb industry standard facilities and resources. Our aim is to inspire you by showcasing the many career opportunities available and equip you with the skills, capabilities and results you need in order to succeed in those careers, progress to higher education or the workplace as well as in life.

NPTC Group of Colleges consistently excels in both A Level and vocational results, with many of our students progressing to red brick universities including Oxbridge, or walking directly into their dream career. That’s because whilst there is a mature and friendly atmosphere, our body of gifted students are pushed to maintain consistently high levels of academic achievement, but we also place a lot of focus on those transferrable skills that will help gain employment straight from College or succeed in life.

The reason why our students continue to succeed is all down to the support and guidance from our expert lecturing staff and the excellent pastoral care they provide. We all know that students that are happy are motivated, achieve and they flourish. As a College we pride ourselves on building a supportive environment that will positively improve resilience, independence and confidence, with both teaching and support staff ready to ignite and nurture their ambitions. So whether you choose a career-focussed vocational course, A Levels or an apprenticeship, be your future at NPTC Group of Colleges.

NPTC Group of Colleges congratulate all our students receiving their results this year. The class of 2022 was the first to sit exams since the pandemic and despite the challenges faced over the last two years, they have shown an impressive resilience to achieve an overall pass rate of almost 99 percent. A* - B grades exceeded those of 2019 when students last sat examinations, with almost 60 percent of students achieving those grades. Almost a third of students (32.2 percent) achieved A*- A grades, and 83 percent A* - C grades. For the students who followed the Gifted and Talented (GATE) programme it’s also good news, with 84 percent achieving A* - A grades and 100 percent A* - B grades.

Students sitting their Extended National Diploma Certificates also made the headlines, with 63 students achieving triple distinctions grades, and 25 students achieving the highest possible grade profile of triple distinction stars (D*D*D*) which is the equivalent to three A* at A Level.

In addition, no fewer than 292 learners successfully achieved the Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate with an outstanding pass rate of 99.6 percent, with 65 percent achieving between an A* and C grade.

Many students have secured places at top universities, including Oxford University, or gained the qualifications to

land their dream jobs. It is important to note that this year has not been like any other year. Staff have undertaken an enormous amount of work to welcome students back into the classroom and prepare them for exams in very difficult circumstances. Catherine Lewis, Acting CEO and Acting Principal of NPTC Group of Colleges, commented: “These results are outstanding. To exceed the A* - B grades of 2019 (pre-Covid) is an exceptional achievement. I am very proud of our students and our teaching and support staff for the very hard work that has underpinned all the hundreds of successes that lie behind the figures.”

Top performing A Level student Hermione Chammings from Cwmgwrach is a former Llangatwg pupil who is off to prestigious Oxford University to study History, after achieving an outstanding A* in Religious Studies, A* in History, A* in Government and Politics and an A in the Extended Project Qualification.

“It's really nice to finally know how I did after the long wait through summer, and it’s even nicer to see my hard work pay off. After not sitting exams for so long, not knowing if my revision was working, it’s such a relief to know it did and I’m really excited to go to Oxford.

Group of CollegES?

My lecturers have been supportive especially when it came to my UCAS application, being part of the GATE programme (Gifted and Talented Excellence Programme) and taking on the Extended Project Qualification has really prepared me academically for university.

I’m sad to be leaving college as it was such a nice environment, but going to Oxford is big. it's quite daunting but I’m also really looking forward to it.’’

A Level student Ellie Sanders has been offered a scholarship to Aberystwyth University to study International Relations and History. She is hoping to follow in the footsteps of local politicians, such as current MS Jeremy Miles (Minister for Education and Welsh Language) and MP Christina Rees, after achieving amazing results in her A Levels: German – A, History - A*, Sociology - A Extended Project Qualification - A*.

“I am really pleased with my results, and I think that I can speak on behalf of all students that this has been an agonising wait, but with the support of our lecturers and the College, the results we achieved today truly reflect the hard work that we’ve put in over the last two years.

The lecturers have been supportive and made sure we are comfortable with the course content; they’ve put on extra revision sessions for us and I couldn’t be more grateful.

I really couldn’t have achieved these results without their help and support.’’

Erin Mckay, a Health and Social Care (Health Studies) student, is off to Bath Spa University to read Early Childhood Studies after achieving Triple Distinction Stars (D*D*D*). She said “I’ve been studying at Neath College for three years after swapping from A Levels to Health and Social Care and I’ve just found the learning environment so supportive.”

A Level student Aled Morgan has decided to opt for a Degree Apprenticeship in Civil Engineering after achieving a whopping A* Physics, A* Maths, A* Computer Science, an A in Further Maths and a B in the Extended Project Qualification.

Former Birchgrove Comprehensive pupil Katie Edwards achieved A, A, A in A Level English Lit/Language; Psychology and Criminology. She is off to Bristol University to study Criminology.

Delighted with her results, Katie said her first year was difficult studying online but much better when it moved to face-toface.

"It was a struggle in the first year but teaching staff were great and things really improved when we came back into College"

Ffion Willis received Triple Distinction Stars (D*D*D*) in her vocational Applied Science (Biomedical Science) qualification and is now off to Swansea University to study Audiology.

“I chose Audiology as I really enjoyed the Biology side of the course at College. I wanted to do something different in medicine.’’

Budding lawyer Alex Thomas received an A* in Law, an A in Business, an A* in English Language & Literature and an A* Extended Project Qualification. He has been accepted to Exeter University to study Law.

Sportsman Ethan Griffiths achieved top grades of Triple Distinction Stars (D*D*D*) in his vocational Sports Coaching & Development qualification and is now off to study to become a chiropractor at Bournemouth University.

“I really enjoyed College. I’ve suffered some injuries from playing rugby and visits to the chiropractor and the methods used made me decide to become a chiropractor.’’

Zack Childs is over the moon with his A Level results after receiving an A* in Maths, an A* in Physics, an A* in Chemistry, an A* in Biology and an A in the Extended Project Qualification. He has been accepted to Imperial College London to study Biochemistry and hopes to go into research.

A Level student Oliver Jones achieved an A in English Language and Literature, an A in Sociology and an impressive A* in German. A former Llangatwg student, he enjoyed College and says he is really going to miss it. He is taking a gap year, but wants to go to university in Germany to study in German.

Award-Winning Teaching

Here at NPTC Group of Colleges you will be taught by experts with a wealth of industry specific knowledge plus firm links with the best employers, giving you the highest quality of teaching and learning. In fact, our teaching is so good that we have been named as one of the best Colleges in Wales and ranked highly in UK*

We pride ourselves on giving every student the individual support they need to succeed, whether that be progressing onto top universities, apprenticeships or into a dream career with the best employers.

At whatever level you join us, we will be with you every step of the way to support your educational journey, and promise that whenever you decide to leave us, you will leave with the skills and qualifications needed to flourish.

Within each subject area there is a regular programme of assessment and support. You will be involved in planning your individual learning and setting targets for improvement which are regularly reviewed with your tutors. We provide tutorial support in addition to timetabled lessons to assist exam preparation, UCAS applications and pastoral support. Our library is well-equipped and provides access to the services and resources that you need for your studies. As well as extensive collections of books, newspapers, magazines and DVDs, our centres also offer access to online information, advice on research methods and can help with references.

We nurture those gifted and talented students with specialist support and mentoring including comprehensive advice and guidance on the complex UCAS application process to top universities and competitive courses such as Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, and Law. The College has guest speakers including annual talks delivered by the Royal Society of Chemistry, Cardiff Medical School and Oxbridge admissions tutors. There are other opportunities too where you can enhance your application by taking part in enrichment activities such as the Maths Challenge, Biology Olympiad, Med-link and STEM events.

AwARd-WINnINg Facilities

Llandarcy:

Neath: High quality science labs

Neath: Top-of-the-range engineering equipment

State-of-the-art sport facilities

Pontardawe: Brand new motor vehicle extension

Neath: A classy training restaurant - Blasus

New construction centre in Neath: Award-winning construction department

Neath: Exceptional performing arts studios, theatre and more

Afan, Brecon & Neath: Exciting Lee Stafford Hairdressing Academy

Investment to improve student experience is a winner for Neath College

The Sixth Form Academy Hub at Neath College has picked up a top award for improving the student experience at the Education Building Wales Awards 2019.

The award recognises a learning establishment which has invested in building improvements that significantly improve the experience of students. There is now a new meeting and studying area for students, a Starbucks Coffee area, student services HQ, and an open-plan work environment. The space is also used for meetings and functions.

The work included installing a new contemporary glass extension that transformed the building, increasing daylight and creating space. The design also included new external cladding and a vibrantly coloured entrance pod that signifies the College’s main entrance and seamlessly connects the old and new.

The CWTCH –

College

Within The Community Hub

Brecon Beacons College’s newest addition, the College Within the Community Hub – ‘The CWTCH’, is now officially part of the community. The former tourist information centre has created a vision for further education in Brecon and is now part of the community with open access for all. Former Member of the Senedd for Brecon and Radnorshire and Minister for Education Kirsty Williams unveiled a plaque to mark the opening. Ms Williams said: “It’s given this building re-purpose and will broaden college activity by being so accessible and central. It will be a hub and bring people together. I find this building and what ’s going on inspirational.”

The CWTCH has been refurbished and includes flexible working areas, video conferencing facilities, interactive touch screens, and ultra-fast 1GB internet access, along with state-of-the-art computing facilities for both student and public use. Also available will be tips on job hunting, setting up your own business, interview techniques, and CV writing.

Further plans to relocate Brecon Beacons College into Brecon town are also moving ahead which will allow students access directly to the town and the facilities provided by local businesses on a daily basis.

Principal and CEO of NPTC Group of Colleges Mark Dacey said: “We are delighted with the award and the new facility which showcases our commitment to investing in college facilities and providing the best possible experience for our students.”

Port Talbot

NPTC Group of Colleges has been granted provisional Welsh Government approval for the development of a multimillion college campus, bringing the first educational establishment to Harbourside in Port Talbot. The campus will boast all the latest technological facilities and a dedicated Sixth Form Centre; the new site will give the area’s shopping centre a much welcome boost by bringing in more than 1,000 students daily. This development has been planned in line with the Harbourside Development Strategy of the local authority.

The CWTCH

Brecon Beacons College

moving into town

Further education provision in Brecon is being transformed as NPTC Group of Colleges looks to relocate into the town centre.

Brecon’s Watton Mount and the former library on Ship Street have been transferred upon purchase to NPTC Group of Colleges by Powys County Council. The move will allow NPTC Group of Colleges to relocate its Brecon Beacons College into the town centre for a ‘university feel’ campus, leading to highly resourced, fit for the 21st century education, to be delivered in the town.

This follows an earlier deal between the council and NPTC Group of Colleges which saw the former TIC in the former cattle market car park internally reconfigured and rebranded by the NPTC Group of Colleges as “The Cwtch”, providing multiple learning opportunities for residents, becoming a drop-in centre, as well as a space to be utilised by community groups and clubs, under a 25-yearlease.

The buildings will be refurbished by the College to house interactive technologies and state-of-the-art spaces for several areas of study. The two organisations are also working in partnership in the town at Brecon’s showcase attraction y Gaer, which will result in a new College library, some joint teaching spaces and a café while the opening hours of the community library will be extended to seven days a week.

Nigel Brinn, Powys County Council’s Executive Director for Economy and Environment, said: “The transfer of these prominent town centre buildings will bring considerable regeneration benefits to Brecon, boosting the trade of shops and businesses and breathing more life into the town centre.

“The council will work closely with NPTC Group of Colleges, as they deliver their development plans for Brecon Beacons College.”

Mark Dacey, CEO and Principal of NPTC Group of Colleges, said he was delighted that progress was being made. “This project has been in the pipeline for some time, and we are delighted that it is now moving in the right direction with contracts for Watton Mount and Ship Street Library being exchanged.”

www.nptcgroup.ac.uk

Your Application

Your Journey

Go to the search bar and type in one of the A Level subjects you wish to apply for e.g. French and click to search. You can then select your course from the list that will pop up. Once you’ve opened the webpage you can click on the “Apply Now” button on the page to start your application.

Your College

Welcome to the online application system here at NPTC Group of Colleges.

You have the power to manage every stage of your journey, from researching courses that interest you, to completing the application form and selecting interview dates.

You can also log into your account at anytime to see where you are in the process.

Right course, right choice! With so many choices available we understand that making a decision can be difficult. We are here to support you through the process whether it be A Levels, vocational courses, learning parttime or an apprenticeship!

So how do you choose?

Explore your options by reading our full-time prospectus, browsing our website for ideas, attending open days, or taking advantage of our awesome career app, ‘Career Coach’.

KEEP IN TOUCH

Don’t forget you can change your choice of course at any stage, right up to enrolment!

Good luck in your GCSEs and we'll see you in September!

You’ll be studying three or four A Levels, but you only need to apply for one. You can either click ‘Apply Now’ from a particular subject page or you can apply from the A Level / AS Level - All Courses page. There will be an option to add your additional subjects in the application form.

If this is your first time applying to the College, you’ll need to create a Learning Hub account so make sure you have an e-mail address ready.

Your username will be the first part of your e-mail address (the section before the @).

Passwords must be at least nine characters long and contain at least one uppercase, one lowercase and one number.

Once you have completed the form and clicked register, a pop-up will show you what your username is – but you will also receive an e-mail confirmation. Once you have clicked 'register' you can continue with your application. Simply fill out each stage step-by-step. If at any point you need any help, College staff are always on hand to help via telephone, e-mail or social media! E-mail: admissions@nptcgroup.ac.uk

You can stop at any point and the application will be saved. To log back in just visit the College homepage. The MY APPLICATION button is located on the top of the page.

We’re planning our interviews for the next academic year right now. Please see the website for up to date information. An interview is a chance for you and your parents/guardians to come in to talk to us, find out all about the College and get more information on the subjects or courses you’ve chosen to study.

After you have discussed your entry requirements at your interview and chosen the course you want to study, we will put your conditional offer on The Learning Hub, which you can immediately accept. If you ever need to log back into your account, you’ll find the MY APPLICATION button on the top of the homepage. You will be able to tell where you are in the application process on your homepage!

Go to the search bar and type in the course you wish to apply for e.g. Brickwork, Dance, Sport or Hairdressing and click to search. You can then select your course from the list that will pop up. Once you’ve opened the webpage you can click on the “Apply Now” button on the page to start your application

If this is your first time applying to the College, you’ll need to create a Learning Hub account so make sure you have an e-mail address ready.

Your username will be the first part of your e-mail address (the section before the @).

Passwords must be at least nine characters long and contain at least one uppercase, one lowercase and one number.

Once you have completed the form and clicked register, a pop-up will show you what your username is – but you will also receive an e-mail confirmation. Once you have clicked 'register' you can continue with your application. Simply fill out each stage step-by-step. If at any point you need any help, College staff are always on hand to help via telephone, e-mail or social media! E-mail: admissions@nptcgroup.ac.uk

You can stop at any point and the application will be saved. To log back in just visit the College homepage. The MY APPLICATION button is located on the top of the page.

We’re planning our interviews for the next academic year right now. Please see the website for up to date information. An interview is a chance for you and your parents/guardians to come in to talk to us, find out all about the College and get more information on the subjects or courses you’ve chosen to study. There’s no need to worry about your interview, it’s a relaxed and informal opportunity to ask questions and make sure the course is right for you.

After you have discussed our entry requirements at your interview and chosen the course you want to study, we will put your conditional offer on Learning Hub, which you can immediately accept.

If you ever need to log back into your account, you’ll find the MY APPLICATION button on the top of the homepage. You will be able to tell where you are in the application process on your homepage!

WHY STUDY LEVEL 3 AWARD IN

ADVANCED SKILLS BACCALAUREATE WALES?

The Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales (AdvSBW) qualification is an exciting new Level 3 qualification that supports students to become effective, responsible and active citizens, equipping them with the skills for future study or to enter the job market.

The qualification has primarily been designed for students aged 16-19, and can be taken alongside other Level 3 qualifications, including A Levels.

WHAT WILL I STUDY?

Our two-year course is made up of three projects: Global Community Project, Future Destination Project, and Individual Project. You will develop and apply the four integral skills and have opportunities to develop the three embedded skills. Students will take part in a variety of exciting activities and contexts which will be based on the United Nations sustainable development agenda and Wales’s Well-being Goals as defined by the Well-being of Future Generations Act (Wales). WHAT SKILLS WILL

I DEVELOP?

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

Global Community Project (25%)

You will select a global issue to investigate, share your knowledge with others and take part in a community action.

Future Destination Project (25%)

You will gain an understanding of yourself, explore future employment and wellbeing goals, and plan how you can achieve this.

Individual Project (50%)

You will plan, manage, and research a topic linked to your future education or career aspirations, and create a written dissertation or an artefact.

Assessments can be taken throughout the two-year course with external moderation in January and May. You are likely to complete the Individual Project in the second year.

CAREERS WITH AdvSBW

This qualification allows you to develop important skills that you can take forward whether you are moving on to university, training or employment. Developing these skills will help you become an effective, responsible and active citizen and can have a profound effect on your future success and wellbeing.

"The Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales develops valuable problem-solving skills, by providing relatable problems to which learners can productively work towards proposed solutions. It allows learners to analyse information, to consider multiple approaches to a problem and whilst working collaboratively, recommended creative solutions."

Davies Chief Operating Officer at Engineering Education Scheme Wales Ltd

Rebecca

Career Coach - tailored careers advice using local job market intelligence

When students have a clear vision of the future, they’re more likely to excel in their studies and go on to forge successful careers. Career Coach is a free online tool available from NPTC Group of Colleges that can help shape that vision.

Using comprehensive job market data, Career Coach can help you find your perfect job and the courses that will help you get there!

Career Coach’s detailed online assessment suggests careers based on your interests and skills. With detailed labour market information, expected earnings and the number of jobs in the area, Career Coach highlights the best courses to help you progress into your chosen career.

Career Coach also links into the College’s Career Ready initiative which has been specifically designed to get you ready for the world of work. Career Ready offers CV writing workshops, interview preparation and practice, work experience placements and support with all aspects of the application process.

Why become an apprentice? IT PAYS TO Learn

If studying full-time is not for you, then work-based learning could be exactly what you are looking for. There are programmes to suit everyone! Work-based learning gives you the chance to gain experience in a real job, plus job-specific qualifications while earning money. Opportunities vary depending on the programme.

M Earn while you learn - be paid a salary

M Gain skills, knowledge, experience and face new challenges

M Gain a nationally recognised qualification

M Excellent progression opportunities.

What types of apprenticeships are there?

M There are three types of apprenticeships you can apply for depending on current skills and qualifications:

M Foundation Apprenticeship - Level 2

M Apprenticeship - Level 3

M Higher Apprenticeship - Level 4+

Apprenticeships

You will be on placement with an employer and possibly attend College for one day a week. You will be assessed in the workplace and helped to gather evidence for your portfolio.

Jobs Growth Wales+

If you are aged 16-18 years, Jobs Growth Wales+ offers learning programmes to support you to build work-related skills and identify career choices. This is a very flexible programme designed around you to develop new skills and gain recognised qualifications to boost your career options until you venture onto your apprenticeship, College, or work journey. To apply you must be:

Between 16-18 years old; and

Living in Wales; and

Not in full-time education, employment or training What will it offer me?

Receive ongoing training support from a designated contractor

Evidence to state on career related applications and CVs

training and work experiences

Build your confidence as you grow your skills and experience

Get a foot in the door and access to jobs with local employers.

What support is available through Jobs Growth Wales+? Jobs Growth Wales+ has three strands of support:

Jobs Growth Wales Plus Engagement

Jobs Growth Wales Plus Advancement

M Jobs Growth Wales Plus Employment

An apprenticeship is a work-based learning programme where you can earn a wage while you learn. If you live in Wales and are over 16 and not in full-time education, you can apply for an apprenticeship.

Degree Apprenticeships

NPTC Group of Colleges and Wrexham Glyndŵr University (WGU) have recently been awarded funding under the new Degree Apprenticeship Pilot Programme for Wales. Reflecting the skills needs of Wales, universities and other degree awarding institutions were asked to design a new suite of digital programmes to enable Welsh organisations to upskill their existing employees or recruit new talent in areas such as software engineering, cyber security and data science for the new Digital Degree Apprenticeships Framework.

apprenticES do?

Level 3 Clinical Care Apprentice

“Completing my Level 3 gave me the opportunity to progress into a new position in work and enrol onto university. The course was fantastic, flexible and I was fully supported by the amazing Kelly. Cannot recommend it enough!"

Level 3 Motor Vehicle Apprentice

"Completing my Motor Vehicle Apprenticeship was a great experience and I had great support from my assessor to achieve my L3 Qualification! I couldn't recommend this course enough!"

Level 4 Leadership & Management Apprentice

"I am thrilled to have completed my NVQ. I have thoroughly enjoyed this course, although challenging and thought provoking: I’ve applied it and will continue to throughout my future career."

Scott has been an excellent tutor who has completely supported me through this course and whilst studying remotely: communicating with me via email, calls and texts. He adapted his teaching skills accordingly to continue tutoring during these unusual times. His teaching style brought the best out in me and I would definitely recommend him and this course to my colleagues."

ALevels ALevels

Academi’r 6ed Dosbarth

A LEVEL A*- C % A*-E %

The Sixth Form Academy at Neath College is a vibrant and dynamic place to study with state-of-theart facilities including our award-winning Sixth Form Academy hub. The Sixth Form Academy provides our students with a supportive, nurturing and academic environment to ensure you are challenged to achieve your full potential. The Sixth Form Academy is committed to providing opportunities for learners to develop their skills alongside their main course of study. Therefore, the majority of our learners will complete the Skills Challenge Certificate. We will prepare you for university life by encouraging independent learning within a sixth form environment.

One of the many benefits of studying at the Academy is the wide range of subject choices. We offer over 38 A Level subjects plus vocational courses, GCSEs, Access to Higher Education courses and the PGCE qualification. Our A Level courses are delivered by experienced staff who are subject experts and achieve consistently high pass rates year after year. The support they offer to students is second to none with high standards continuously maintained. The majority of our students go on to further study and progress onto Higher Education with many attending some of the top universities in the UK, including the Russell Group and Oxbridge.

Making the right choice for AS/A Level study can be the key to your success. Therefore, Sixth Form Academy staff will provide you with comprehensive advice and guidance regarding combinations of AS Level subjects. We will help you to choose subjects that you enjoy and have the motivation to learn, and that will allow you to progress along your chosen career path.

Neath College AS/A Levels Results 2021/22

Ancient History 80 100 Biology 80 98.5 Business Studies 81.5 100 Chemistry 73.3 100 Computer Science 91.7 100 Criminology 89.7 100 Dance 100 100

Drama/Theatre Studies 80 100 Economics 88.2 100 English Language/Literature 90 100 English Language 95.2 100 English Literature 71.4 100 Film Studies 64.3 100 Fine Art 85.7 100 French 100 100 Geography 75 100 German 100 100 Government and Politics 73.3 100 Graphic Communication 89.7 100 Health/Social Care 81 93.8 History 78 98 ICT 81 95 Law 90.2 97.6 Maths 75.4 95.1 Maths (Further) 100 100 Media Studies 54.2 95.8 Music 57.1 100 PE 87.5 100

Photography 90 100 Physics 95.2 100 Psychology 82.1 98.7 Religious Studies 66.7 92.6 Sociology 94.8 100 Spanish 100 100 Textiles 100 100

Three Dimensional Design 77.8 100 Travel/Tourism 100 100

Welsh (Second Language) 100 100

OVERALL PASS RATE 82.5% 98.4%

Gifted and Talented Excellence Programme

(GATE)

As a member of the Sixth Form Academy, you may be eligible to apply for our Gifted and Talented Excellence (GATE) programme. This is a structured specialist programme of support for those learners with exceptional GCSE results (minimum of 3A* and the rest A Grades at GCSE). Those applying to competitive universities, particularly those in the Russell Group, Oxford and Cambridge, will receive personalised support through our Gifted and Talented Excellence programme. Application to competitive universities is about more than excellent grades. You must make an informed choice regarding the subjects you want to pursue, understand the competitive selection process and systems, submit a polished application and excel at interview.

While on the GATE programme, you will be placed into a specific tutorial group which will cater to your needs and aspirations. The aim is to broaden your horizons beyond your chosen subjects and to promote analytical reasoning and discussion. This is invaluable preparation for university interviews. Some of the areas covered during tutorial will include:

q Political processes and goals

q Beliefs, values and moral reasoning

q The ethical and environmental implications of scientific development. These issues are linked to current events.

NPTC Group of CollegES' A LEvel results AveragES

NPTC Group Grade National of Colleges

91.9% A*- A 40.9%

100% A*- B 66.5%

The Extended Project Qualification: You will have the opportunity to complete the extended project qualification which allows you to research, design and carry out an independent project which could be related to an academic subject that you are studying. You will be supported throughout completion of your project and will be given the specialised help of the relevant teaching staff.

By completing this qualification, you will:

q Become more critical, reflective and independent in your learning

q Develop and apply decision-making and problemsolving skills

q Increase your planning, research, analysis, synthesis, evaluation and presentation skills

q Learn to apply new technologies confidently

q Demonstrate creativity, initiative and enterprise.

The GATE programme will also give you the opportunity to further enhance your skills through additional qualifications and competitions.

Estyn reported that

A Level classes, teachers deliver lively sessions that engage learners well. They help structure learners’ understanding of concepts, and encourage them to develop wider subject interests.

INtroduction TO A LEvels

This course is designed to prepare you for AS Level study or Level 3 courses. It is an academic course that will enable you to build upon your GCSE profile if you currently haven’t met the entry requirements required for an AS/ AS/A Level or Level 3 programmes, or if you need to improve your GCSE profile for your chosen career.

NPTC Group of Colleges is part of the Seren Network: Supporting Wales’ Brightest Programme designed to support Wales’ brightest students, achieve their academic potential and gain access to leading universities. As part of the hub, students will have access to: q accurate information q provision of super-curricular activities q a peer group of high achieving students q links to university students and recent graduates from similar backgrounds.

Through the Seren hubs, we can offer students additional practical help and guidance that they need throughout the application process. This will prove to be advantageous when applying to the top universities. It provides such a great opportunity for pupils to be a part of a network of likeminded students who share similar goals.

Entry requirements

A minimum of 1 C grade and 3 D grades at GCSE to include Maths or English and a Science. Alternatively, a recent knowledge of working within these subjects.

Next Steps

Progression directly onto a selection of AS/A Levels or a career-focused Level 3 course at NPTC Group of Colleges.

in

Science and Maths

With a career in Science or Maths you could make a difference to society. You could find a cure for a deadly illness or develop an exciting new product to name just two of the endless possibilities. We have one of the best equipped departments in the area and a consistent record of excellent results. All the science subjects and mathematics are regarded as "facilitating subjects" by the Russell Group of universities, which means they can be useful for getting onto a wide range of courses at those top universities.

Just as languages provide the building blocks and rules we need to communicate, Maths uses its own language, made up of numbers, symbols and formulas, to explore the rules we need to measure or identify essential problems like distance, speed, time, space, change, force and quantities. Studying Maths helps us find patterns and structure in our lives. Practically, Maths helps us put a price on things, create graphics, build websites, build skyscrapers and generally understand how things work or predict how they might change over time and under different conditions.

Many degrees fall into one of two camps: Biological/Life Sciences and Physical Sciences.

Biological/Life Sciences are degrees based on Chemistry and Biology. As long as you choose these two subjects at Advanced level, a huge range of degrees will be open to you. These include degrees leading to a definite career path, for example, Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Pharmacy, Dietetics; and degrees based on research, for example, Biochemistry, Biomedical Materials Science, Pharmacology.

Physical Sciences involve the practical application of Mathematics and Physics. As long as you take these two subjects at A Level, a huge range of degrees will be open to you, such as Engineering (Mechanical, Electronic/Electrical and Civil), Maths, Physics and Materials Science.

If you are a very talented scientist/mathematician, it is important that out of the four available sciences – Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Maths (which includes both Mathematics and Further Mathematics) – you choose three. If you are inclined towards Life Sciences, then you should choose Chemistry and Biology. If you know you are on the Engineering side, you should choose Mathematics (and possibly Further Mathematics) and Physics.

Typical subject combinations.

A student who is good at science often chooses Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics and Physics. This will keep open all the Science/Mathematics options at university.

For the sake of maintaining a wider outlook on life, however, many students in this category will replace one of the sciences with an arts/humanities subject or a social science.

When considering such implications, it is worth noting that, in the science field at university, many degrees fall into one of two camps: Biological/Life Sciences and Physical Sciences.

and Midwifery

Veterinary Science

William Lewis Jones Maths Prize

Winners – Chay Baily & Jess Gaule

Jess has consistently been our best performer through both years of the A Level course. She has demonstrated excellent mathematical understanding as evidenced by her achieving the highest marks in her Maths and Further Maths mocks (95%+) as well as the highest marks in the in-class tests that we conducted as part of the CDGs last year. She achieved a phenomenal Physics – A*, A2 Mathematics – A*, A2 Further Mathematics – A* and Extended Project – A*

Jess is planning on studying Maths at Swansea University. She sat a scholarship exam and performed so well that Swansea changed their original UCAS offer to an unconditional. She has also sat the UKMT Math Challenge Awards, achieving a Bronze in both attempts.

Mathematics - A*, Further Mathematics - A*, Physics - A*, Cambridge Pre U: Global perspectives - Distinction

Chay displays a genuine enthusiasm for mathematics and has a natural and innate flair for the subject. He is an outstanding mathematician with a thirst to expand his knowledge and a determination to succeed. His quick and logical mind enables him to grasp new topics with ease thriving on reaching sound conclusions when considering any mathematical problems. Chay’s inquisitive and analytical mind means he enjoys challenging the boundaries of his mathematical knowledge by carrying out further research.

Chay is a talented mathematician who is using these skills to pursue a physics degree at Imperial College London. He thoroughly deserves this award.

Chay is now studying Physics in Imperial College London.

Glan Afan Grammar School Prize for the best science A Levels Prize Winner – Zack Childs

A2 Biology – A*, A2 Chemistry - A*, A2 Physics – A* and A2 Mathematics – A* and Extended Project - A.

Having joined NPTC Group of Colleges, Zack was immediately enrolled onto the Gifted and Talented Programme and has continued to demonstrate a high academic ability throughout his A Levels, achieving A*s in all his subjects and a grade A in his Extended Projected. His scientific knowledge and enthusiasm enable him to provide inspiring and thought-provoking comments when faced with complex concepts.

The outstanding EPQ project that Zack has produced this year is a credit to his intellect and his inquisitive nature. His choice of title ‘In UK crime scene investigation, which method is the most advantageous for collecting evidence: Forensic Haematology or DNA Analysis’, highlights that he is not a student to shy away from the challenging questions, and that he is able to recognise that each of the sciences interconnect and are not stand alone subjects. The finished EPQ project was written to such a high standard that it would not be out of place at undergraduate level.

In addition to completing his A Levels and EPQ, Zack committed himself to super curricular activities and was rewarded by achieving a Bronze Award in the Chemistry Olympiad and a Silver Award in the Biology Olympiad. Zack really thrives on every opportunity to further his knowledge of the sciences. He is a high achiever with the grit and determination needed to excel in higher education and beyond. He is a deserving candidate for this award.

Chay Baily

Jess Gaule

CoursES

A Levels Level Entry Requirements

Biology 3

6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths. GCSE Maths Higher/Intermediate Tier grade B preferred and Higher Tier Additional/Triple Science grade B required.

Chemistry 3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths. GCSE Maths Higher/ Intermediate Tier grade B required and Higher Tier Additional/Triple Science grade B required.

Criminology 3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths. No prior knowledge of subject required.

Physics 3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths Higher/Intermediate Tier. GCSE Maths grade B required and Higher Tier Additional/Triple Science grade B required.

Psychology 3

Mathematics 3

6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including grade C in Maths, C/C or C/C/C in Science and grade B in English Language and strong essay writing skills required. GCSE Numeracy grade C recommended.

6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths. Higher/Intermediate Tier GCSE Maths grade B and GCSE Numeracy grade C recommended.

Further Mathematics 3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths. Higher Tier GCSE Maths grade A required and grade A* recommended.

Level Entry Requirements

BTEC Extended Diploma in Applied Science 3 5 GCSEs at grade A-C, including C grades in Double Science.

BTEC Extended Certificate in Applied Science 3 6 GCSEs at grade A-C, including Mathematics, Additional Science and English at grade C or above.

Access to HE - Health Care 3

Access to HE - Science 3

This course caters for students 19 and over who are hoping to return to education. Students will need a C grade in GCSE English and a D in GCSE maths or equivalent. However, those without these grades will be required to sit an initial skills assessment prior to enrolling, followed by an interview.

Duration Location

2 Years Neath

2 Years Neath

2 Years Neath

2 Years Neath

2 Years Neath

2 Years Neath

2 Years Neath

Duration Location

2 Years Neath

2 Years Neath

1 Year Neath

1 Year Neath

ALevels ALevels

Creative, Visual and PerFORmINg ARts

The School of Creative, Visual and Performing Arts offers A Level courses in Art and Design, Media Studies and Performing Arts based at our Neath College. Classes are taught in a creative environment and using cutting-edge industry standard equipment within purpose-built specialist facilities, including Nidum Arts Centre. We are a creative centre for learning where you receive extensive training opportunities, along with one-to-one tutoring for your applications for specialist conservatoires and universities. Our students do progress and importantly they are really employable.

CoursES

A Levels

Level Entry Requirements

Duration Location

Dance 3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths. Prior dance experience desirable. 2 Years Neath

Drama and Theatre Studies 3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths. GCSE English Language, grade B recommended. 2 Years Neath

Film Studies 3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths. 2 Years Neath

Fine Art 3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths. GCSE Art and Design essential, minimum C grade. 2 Years Neath

Graphic Communication 3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths. GCSE Art or GCSE Graphics recommended. 2 Years Neath

Media Studies 3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths. GCSE in Media Studies is an advantage although it is not mandatory. 2 Years Neath

Music 3

6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths. Performance on instrument or voice to a minimum standard of grade 5/working towards grade 5 theory. Ability to read music notation is essential.

2 Years Neath

Photography 3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths. GCSE Art/Graphics/D&T required. 2 Years Neath

Textiles 3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths. GCSE Textiles/Art recommended or a satisfactory portfolio of artwork. 2 Years Neath

Three Dimensional Design 3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths. GCSE Art/Graphics/D&D/ Resistant Materials recommended. 2 Years Neath

HumanITiES

The study of Humanities includes studying A Levels in English, Law, Ancient History, History, Geography, Government & Politics, Religious Studies and Sociology to name but a few. They are the study of human behaviour and interaction in social, cultural, environmental, economic and political contexts. The humanities and social sciences have a historical and contemporary focus, from personal to global contexts, and consider challenges for the future. We have extremely passionate subject specific specialists teaching in all areas for A Level, with a wealth of knowledge from lengthy careers in industry.

CoursES

A Levels

Level Entry Requirements

Ancient History 3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths.

English Language 3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths. A grade B in GCSE English Language and a C grade in GCSE English Literature are desirable.

English Literature 3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths. GCSE English Language grade B required.

English Language/ Literature 3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths. Grade B in GCSE English Language is required and a grade B in English Literature is desirable.

Duration Location

2 Years Neath

2 Years Neath

2 Years Neath

2 Years Neath

Geography 3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths. 2 Years Neath

Government and Politics 3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths. A grade B in English Language is desireable

History 3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths.

Law 3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths. Grade B in English language required.

Religious Studies 3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above. Grade C or above in GCSE English Language/Literature is required. Grade C in GCSE maths desirable

Sociology 3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and Maths. Strong essay writing skills required.

Career-Focused Courses

Level Entry Requirements

Access to Humanities and Social Science 3

This course caters for students 19 and over who are hoping to return to education. Students will need a C grade in GCSE English and a D in GCSE Maths or equivalent. However, those without these grades will be required to sit an initial skills assessment prior to enrolling, followed by an interview.

2 Years Neath

2 Years Neath

2 Years Neath

2 Years Neath

2 Years Neath

Duration Location

1 Year Neath

Modern Foreign Languages

UK Civil Service is one of the top six employers in the UK. Civil servants can work in local or national governments.

LanguagES

Languages at A Level obviously offer you a fantastic opportunity to work towards becoming a linguist, but that's not all. They are great subjects to study alone and can also offer excellent opportunities alongside other subjects. Languages can take you across the world and can get you ahead in business, or even could give you a head start in politics. There are simply no limits to the possibilities open to you if you incorporate languages into your studies and we are on hand to ensure that you get all the support, information and encouragement available.

French 3

6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including Maths. A B grade in English Language is required. A C grade in GCSE German is desirable. 2 Years Neath Spanish

6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including Maths. A B grade in English Language is required. A grade C in GCSE French is desirable. 2 Years Neath

Careers and What Could I Earn? Emsi: www.economicmodeling.com

WHAt A Level combINations will HElp me get tre?

2 Years Neath Welsh Second Language Teacher Training q At least one from: Art, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Design Technology, Drama, English, French, Geography, German, History, ICT, Music, Mathematics, Physics, PE, Religious Studies, Spanish.

3 Speech Therapy q Biology q Modern Foreign Language (e.g. French, Spanish, German) q English Language q Psychology

6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including Welsh and Maths. Higher Tier full course GCSE Welsh required. 2 Years Neath Interpreter q English Language q Modern Foreign Languages (e.g. French, Spanish, German) q History q Law q Government and Politics

Apply Online b www.nptcgroup.ac.uk

ALevels ALevels 28

Vocational

ARt, DEsign and Creative

At NPTC Group of Colleges we will help, support, and guide you on your way to becoming a part of this very fast moving and dynamic sector. The UK had an estimated 2.29m creative industries jobs in the year to September 2021, including 1.62m permanent roles, official statistics show. A further 663,000 creative industry jobs were self-employed.

Overall, employment in the creative industries has not suffered during the pandemic as much as was initially feared. The creative industries accounted for 6.9 per cent of all UK jobs in September. This is up from 5.8 per cent in 2015, since when the creative industries have added about 400,000 new UK jobs.

What will I do?

Lessons are taught in a creative environment, using cuttingedge industry standard equipment within purpose-built specialist facilities.

There are numerous opportunities provided for Art and Design, Photography and Multimedia students to exhibit work both within the College and at external public events. Media students work on ‘live’ projects, during which they will liaise with clients and screen their final piece of work.

Many students will go onto the Foundation Year in Art and Design course at Afan College, a prerequisite qualification for many universities.

When creative jobs that are outside the creative industries are also added in – to calculate the total of the UK's creative economy – the total figure has reached 3.12 million, meaning one out of every 11 jobs is in this industry.

Our lecturers are practising artists so you will be learning from those who still play an active part in the creative industries sector, helping to give you the opportunity to explore your personal creative talent in the context of a wider cultural arena, shape it, change it and make a difference.

At this creative centre for learning, you will progress and importantly become really employable – we aim to help you be career ready!

https://cvp.nptcgroup.ac.uk

LEvel 3/4 Foundation Diploma IN ARt & DEsign

The Level 3/4 Foundation Diploma in Art & Design is a Full-time Further Education course designed for older students wanting to work in the Creative Arts industry, providing progression opportunities to exciting and rewarding higher level courses and careers. These include Fine Art, Graphics, Photography, Fashion, Textiles and 3D Design and many more.

The course is mainly a visual and practical programme, which allows students the time, support and environment to discover their individual strengths.

Delivered in an enthusiastic, friendly and supportive atmosphere where students develop an individual approach with confidence. Students are encouraged to explore fresh, exciting ideas and to challenge and develop their existing skills and abilities.

The programme is delivered through lessons, workshops, live projects, individual study, groups discussions and group critiques; demonstrations (technical and practical) and lectures will be underpinned by tutorial support and seminar presentations. During the programme students will be supported to successfully identify future directions, higher level courses and careers.

This course is characterised by broad ranging, radical and experimental approaches to Art & Design, enabling post Level 3 Art, Design or Media courses, such as AS/A2 or Extended Diploma, and mature learners to make informed choices about career and progression pathways.

Afan

If you are under 21 you must have one of the following: 5 GCSE passes at grade A*- C, (or equivalent) plus an Extended Diploma (Art and Design related) or two AS subjects OR one full A Level and be over 17. All students need to submit a portfolio of practical work at interview. We welcome applications from mature students.

If you are over 21, have few qualifications but are interested in the Visual Arts, please get in touch with us to talk about how we can help you.

CoursES

A Levels

Level Entry Requirements

Duration Location

3D Design 3 6 GCSEs A*-C 2 Years Neath

Graphic Communication 3 6 GCSEs A*-C 2 Years Neath

Film Studies 3 6 GCSEs A*-C 2 Years Neath

Fine Art 3 6 GCSEs A*-C 2 Years Neath

Media Studies 3 6 GCSEs A*-C 2 Years Neath

Photography 3 6 GCSEs A*-C 2 Years Neath

Textiles 3 6 GCSEs A*-C 2 Years Neath

Career-Focused Courses

Level Entry Requirements

Duration Location

UAL Diploma in Art and Design 2 4 GCSEs A-D. Grade A-C in GCSE Art and Design is desirable. Equivalent qualifications will also be accepted. 1 Year Afan

UAL Extended Diploma in Art and Design 3 A relevant Level 2 qualification or 5 GCSEs at grade C or above to include GCSE English 2 Years Afan

UAL Diploma in Production and Creative Technology 2 2 GCSEs A*-C or an appropriate Level 1 qualification 1 Year Neath

UAL Diploma in Production and Creative Technology 3 5 GCSEs A*-C including English. A relevant Level 2 qualification.

UAL Extended Diploma in Production Arts with WBQ

Foundation Diploma in Art and Design

2 5 GCSEs A*-C including Maths or English/Welsh. Level 2 BTEC Diploma in a related subject at Merit grade or above. All students also need to present a satisfactory portfolio of practical work at interview.

3/4 1 A Level at grade C or an Extended Diploma. Mature students (age 21+) will be considered on the basis of a portfolio.

1 Year Neath

1 Year Neath

1 Year Afan

Be creative wITh a cAReer IN ARt, DEsign and mEDia

The Port Talbot County School Prize for the best Arts A Level Student

Wil Thomas & Jack Thomas

Wil Thomas demonstrated a high level of commitment and determination to fulfil his ambition of gaining a place at Plymouth College of Art, to undertake a Photography Degree. Despite the frustrations and restrictions of lockdown, he went out into his community to record the impact of the pandemic. The images produced were thought provoking and represented the sense of camaraderie in his local area, but also the impact of isolation on his family. His efforts were awarded with an A* in Photography. He did indeed get that coveted place at Plymouth College of Art.

Our next winner, Jack Thomas produced an exceptional body of work which resulted in an amazing A* in A Level in Graphic Design.

Rachael Lewis is the first recipient of the Port Talbot County School Prize for the best Arts A Level Student as she is a highly creative individual who has really pushed herself out of her comfort zone for her Photography coursework. During lockdown Rachael taught herself how to create a stop motion animation using Adobe Premiere. She created each still herself by experimenting with light painting.

Rachael was a highly positive member of her cohort and had a mature outlook which was often reflected in the work produced in both Fine Art and Photography.

Wil Thomas

Jack Thomas

Entering a career in mechanics or vehicle repair means guaranteeing a future of steady work. Slumps in the economy can affect people buying new cars, but vehicles will always require maintenance and repair. If you enjoy meeting different people every day, being ‘hands-on’, working with cutting edge technology, or have a creative eye or a love of restoration – then a career working with any vehicle is waiting for you.

The Automotive Academy department at Pontardawe College boasts a prestigious state-of-the-art Motor Vehicle Academy, sponsored and promoted by Snap-On Tools, the Rolls Royce of tools.

The Motor Vehicle department has grown in 2022 with the eagerly awaited delivery of a dedicated electric vehicle electric rig and a Peugeot 208 vehicle to support the learning and training opportunities for new electric vehicle technologies. Now learners will have even more opportunities to learn about the vehicles and their latest technologies.

This first class workshop includes ten car ramps, a dedicated all wheel alignment ramp, an MOT-style ATL test bay and a valeting bay, and a range of Snap-on and Pico diagnostics.

Our brand new facility at Pontardawe College is purpose built to industrial specification where we have recently launched a new vehicle body repair workshop, with state-of-the-art spray booths, a paint mixing room, wheel refurbishment booth and a high-intensity heating bay that boasts a prestigious state-of-the-art sponsored and promoted by the likes of deVilbiss tools.

The motor vehicle departments at Brecon Beacons also has fully equipped workshops with four post, two post and scissor-style vehicle lifts, diagnostic testing equipment from Bosch, Crypton, Pico, Autel and ASNU ultrasonic injector cleaning facilities.

What will I do?

Our courses aim to explore a vehicle’s construction and accurately repair damage to the vehicle itself and its body ready for finishing. You will complete a series of assignments and practical tasks carried out in our excellent facilities.

Career opportunities

Employment for mechanics is usually with garages, transport companies, road haulage companies or large organisations with fleets of vehicles. At technician level you will perform skilled diagnostic work, including work on electronic and computer controlled systems. The work is challenging and logical, involving a lot of problem solving. In larger companies, it is usually possible to gain promotion to supervisory and management roles.

Careers within the vehicle body repair and refinishing side is usually within garages, body shops and the motor sport industry that specialise in the repair of vehicles after accident damage. The skills involved within body repair and refinishing vary from sectioning panels to valeting, MIG welding and rectifying paint defects.

Vocational NOVEMBER 2022 24 April 2023 27 34

Apply Online b www.nptcgroup.ac.uk

Student Success

Auto Refinishing Apprentice Joshua Jones has won a place in the WorldSkills UK Talent Programme.

Josh is currently undertaking an apprenticeship with Pathways Training (the College’s work-placed learning provider) and he spends four days a week on placement at Swansea-based vehicle body shop, ‘Scuffed Up’.

Josh’s journey to the WorldSkills UK Talent Programme has seen him compete across Wales and the UK. He took silver in the World Skills Wales competition final in January 2019 and then went on to compete in the World Skills UK qualifiers (one of only eighteen of the top apprentices in the UK). It was his performance here

CoursES

Career-Focused Courses

that won him a place in the World Skills Live UK Final in November 2019 and ultimately led to him being selected for the WorldSkills UK Talent Programme.

Josh hopes one day to run his own vehicle body shop, but until then, is enjoying earning whilst working at learning. He said: “I’ve worked hard to get to where I am now, constantly improving my techniques and honing my craft, both at my workplace and during my study days at college. Being able to work at the same time as studying has been invaluable, as I learn new things every day at Scuffed Up; there are different kinds of jobs coming in every day on all kinds of cars, so you have to be adaptable. The sense of satisfaction when a customer leaves us happy is second to none. I really enjoy that.”

Level Entry Requirements

Automotive Engineering 1 GCSEs at grade D/E or above are desirable, but practical experience is also considered.

Automotive Engineering 2 4 GCSEs at grade C or above are desirable, but practical experience is also considered.

Automotive Engineering 3 5 GCSEs at grade C or above are desirable, but practical experience is also considered.

Vehicle Body Repair (Body) 1 GCSEs at grade D/E or above are desirable, but practical experience is also considered.

Vehicle Body Repair Refinishing (Paint) 2 4 GCSEs at grade C or above are desirable but practical experience is also considered.

Average annual earnings Emsi: www.economicmodeling.com

Mechanic £13k - £30k

Automotive Engineer £60k+ in senior roles (Prospects.ac.uk)

Vehicle Paint Technicians £18k - £40k

Duration Location

1 Year Brecon/ Pontardawe

1 Year Brecon/ Pontardawe

1 Year Brecon

1 Year Pontardawe

1 Year Pontardawe

Vocational

Beauty trapy and Makeup ARtistry

Today’s beauty and applied therapy industry is an everexpanding, ever-changing, ever-fascinating sector. If you are innovative and ambitious, there is no limit to your potential, be it in PR, journalism, makeup, becoming a salon owner, beauty therapist or founding your own beauty company!

No other industry has such a constant worldwide demand for qualified, creative, well-trained individuals.

The beauty/ applied therapy industry offers bright opportunities with careers in the fashion industry as a makeup artist or stylist. Specialisms such as theatrical special effects and media makeup offer the opportunity to work behind the scenes in film, theatre and TV. You might have the independence to start your own salon or spa or even become an instructor at College and inspire others to enter into the business.

What will I do?

As part of the Lee Stafford Academy Hairdressing, Barbering and Applied Therapies, you will be taught in industry leading salons by highly skilled professionals with a wealth of beauty industry knowledge. Courses will cover makeup, massage therapies and technical aesthetic applications such as eyebrow shaping, eyelash and eyebrow tinting, waxing, manicure and pedicure as well as anatomy and physiology, skin and hair growth. Theatrical/special effects makeup route will involve working with prosthetics, postiche and special effects makeup.

Career opportunities

Theatrical makeup artist, dermatologist, eyelash technician, nail technician, spa owner, freelance beauty therapist, beauty writer, beauty vlogger.

Student Success

Ariyarnna Tidbury has made it through to the final eight in the Beauty Practioner WorldSkills Competition final to be held in Blackpool.

This follows on from her success at the Skills Wales Competition where she achieved a Bronze medal.

The WorldSkills competition focuses on the role and tasks of a Beauty Therapy Practitioner carrying out a range of services which reflect both current and traditional standards plus current industry requirements.

CoursES

Career-Focused Courses

Introduction to Hair and Beauty Services

VRQ Beauty Therapy (ages 16-18)

VTCT VRQ Level 2 diploma in Hair and Media Makeup

VTCT NVQ Diploma in Beauty Therapy (ages 16-18)

VTCT NVQ Diploma in Beauty Therapy (ages 19+)

VTCT Diploma in Beauty Therapy Studies

VTCT VRQ in Beauty Therapy Treatments

VTCT Diploma in Theatrical, Special Effects and Hair and Media Makeup

Competitors will be tested on health and safety, exceptional client care and communication skills as well as demonstrating specialist skills and technical knowledge to the highest level.

Beauty and Applied Therapy Lecturer Lisa Brandon said:

'I am extremely proud of all of Ariyarnna's achievements and to get through to the final just shows what skill level and dedication she has'.

Level Entry Requirements

1 2 GCSEs at grades D or above

Duration Location

1 Year Afan

1 2 GCSEs at grades C or above

1 Year Afan

2 2 GCSEs at grades D or above

1 Year Afan

2 5 GCSEs at grades C or above.

2 5 GCSEs at grade C or above or successful interview. (19 years of age).

2 2–3 GCSEs at grades C and above. Interview prior to enrolment.

3 Level 2 Beauty Therapy or an equivalent qualification

3 5 GCSEs at grades C or above (or Level 2 Beauty/Hairdressing qualification). Mature students require a successful interview.

1 Year Afan/ Brecon

1 Year Afan

1 Year Afan

1 Year Afan/ Brecon

1 Year Afan

Ariyarnna Tidbury

AppliED Science

The Applied Science course equips you with a variety of different skills and a wide science knowledge base spanning Biology, Chemistry and Physics, providing you with opportunities to apply to a wide range of university courses.

The BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma has a general applied route and an optional specialist pathway between a biomedical unit and a forensic science unit.

What will I do?

This course consists of 60% coursework, while 20% is exam based and 20% externally marked coursework. Examples of units you will study include biomedical science, forensic evidence collection and analysis, principles and applications of science, science investigation skills, laboratory techniques, physiology of human body systems, contemporary issues in science and organic chemistry.

You will be required to undertake a programme of assignments throughout the course, and external examinations in two units. These will include assessment of practical skills and the ability to work safely. It is essential that you are well organised and meet deadlines.

Career opportunities

Possible careers include biochemist, radiologist, radiographer, audiologist, chemist, biologist, paramedic, chiropractor, healthcare and forensic science.

CoursES

Career-Focused Courses

Vocational

Student Success

Ellie Pits: Level 3 in Forensic Science

Why did you choose this course? “Initially I wanted to study Criminology at university so decided to take Forensic Science to get both the practical experience as well as the court experience.

Whilst at College, I made the UK National World Skills finals at the NEC in Birmingham in which I received highly commended, meaning I’m one of the best in the UK. It was one of the best experiences of my life, and I would recommend that any student thinking about competing to go for it. It looks great on your CV or UCAS application and gives you loads of confidence.

After College, I plan to now go to university to study Forensic Science, then Medicine to eventually become a Forensic Pathologist.”

Average annual earnings

Biological Scientists and Biochemist £45k

Crime Scene Investigator £17k-£35k Criminologist £25k-£28k

Fire Investigator £70k Forensic Scientist £20k Radiographer £40k Paramedic £36k

Level Entry Requirements

BTEC Extended Diploma in Applied Science 3 5 GCSEs at A-C, including C grades in Double Science.

Duration Location

2 Years Neath

BTEC Extended Certificate in Applied Science 3 6 GCSEs at grade A-C, including Mathematics, Additional Science and English at grade C or above. 2 Years Neath

Access to HE - Health Care 3

1 Year Neath

Access to HE - Science 3 1 Year Neath

This course caters for students 19 and over who are hoping to return to education. Students will need a C grade in GCSE English and a D in GCSE Maths or equivalent. However, those without these grades will be required to sit an initial skills assessment prior to enrolling, followed by an interview.

Business and related subjects such as finance, accounting, management and economics are among the most popular fields of study at universities worldwide. This is because business graduates are in high demand worldwide, and because business touches on pretty much every aspect of modern human society. Careers with a business degree are diverse and often highly paid.

The School of Business, Tourism and Management reflects this successful and dynamic sector, with staff bringing a balance of academic excellence and industry expertise to ensure a stimulating and positive learning experience. Travel and tourism is a dynamic and ever-changing industry. In a recent study, Deloitte reported tourism to be the fastest growing sector in the UK for almost ten years! The tourism sector offers employment opportunities globally, nationally and locally.

In the last four years, tourism sector employment in south Wales rose from 29,000 to 31,100 with tourism accounting for 10% of jobs in Wales.

What will I do?

The College is committed to improving numeracy, literacy and digital literacy skills. Students on all courses are encouraged to develop their basic skills which are vital to ensure career success.

The department offers workshops run by experienced business people, and first-class links with local businesses ensure you gain a deep understanding of how companies are managed and run.

As a tourism student you will be well integrated into the community, planning and supporting a range of tourism events and gaining valuable skills in the extended areas of tourism. Career

opportunities

Accounting

Business administration

Cabin crew

Cruise ship

Event managing

Forensic accounting

Hotel management

Human resources

Marketing

Overseas repping

Rural tourism

Stockbroker

Tourism management and development

Travel agency work

Visitor attractions managing

Wedding planning.

Student Success

Sophie Millard

Course:

Vocational

What are your future plans?

“I have been accepted to Manchester University to study International Relations.” “I enjoyed doing Travel and Tourism because it’s allowed me to learn about lots of different aspects in business in the tourism industry and outside of it. I got to do a few trips before Covid and make new friends because of this, so I really enjoyed my time on the course.’’

Civil engINeerINg & CONSTruction Management

Civil Engineers create, improve and protect the environment in which we live. The discipline deals with designing, constructing and managing our physical and naturally built environment including roads, buildings and bridges.

The BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Construction & Civil Engineering is the equivalent of 3 A Levels and is a fantastic stepping stone to university. This is a great way to enjoy a more practical way of learning and for those who are interested in Architecture, Buildings, Design or maybe are thinking of becoming a Quantity Surveyor.

The course covers 18 units which include CAD drawing, Site Surveying, Project Management, Graphical Detailing in Construction and the Built Environment, plus Health, Safety and Welfare.

Assessment takes the form of in course phase tests, assignments and practical exercises.

Career opportunities

The career opportunities in the construction and civil engineering sector are endless, including professions such as Architecture, Interior Architecture, Building Engineering Services, Quantity Surveying, Site Management, Building Surveying, Structural Engineer and Civil Engineering.

The technical and professional occupations in the sector are fast-moving and challenging. You could be involved in seeing through a project all the way from design stage to construction and completion. These projects might include the development and construction of bridges, tunnels, roads, railways, dams, major buildings, coastal projects, power stations as well as new renewable energy sites.

In addition, you could continue with a technical or professional apprenticeships at level 3 and 4, Higher Education, HNC Level 4 in Construction and the Built Environment, HNC Level 4 in Construction and the Built Environment (Civil Engineering), HNC Level 4 in Construction and the Built Environment (Quantity Surveying).

Vocational

Computing and DigITal Technology

With employment in the computing and digital industries set to grow at five times the national average over the next decade, computing and digital technology is fast becoming one of the UK’s most highly paid careers. The computing industry is growing faster than the rest of the UK economy, creating highly-paid job opportunities and accounting for over 1.58m jobs across the UK.

Top employment sectors include application and software development, data management, cyber security, data analytics, hardware, devices, and open source hardware. All our full-time courses are aimed at students who want to gain nationally recognised qualifications in computing and digital technology. We will help you to meet your personal, career and employment goals whether you are leaving school, are in work or simply want to improve your computing skills.

Past students are now working as software developers, dynamic CRM developers, data analysts, IT support and operations technicians, web and eCommerce developers, data warehouse analysts, and systems analysts.

Our dedicated lecturers have sector experience backed up with subject-specific knowledge. Lessons unfold in creative ways illustrated with real-life case studies and examples. Students can take on industry work experience.

The department uses modern hardware and software, such as Adobe Creative Suite, Visual Studio Community, Visual Studio Code, Java, Audacity and Game Maker, Unity, Maya, React Native, VM Ware, macOS, Windows, Linux, and Ocuslus Quest 2. All our courses are delivered in bespoke IT laboratories with a specialised suite for the delivery of PC construction and network developments.

Achievement on our programmes currently stands at 99%, and 100% of BSc students find employment in computingrelated careers within three months of graduating.

What will I do?

You will explore how computing and digital technology is used in industry by developing sector specific knowledge, technical and practical skills, along with how to apply these skills in a work-related environment.

Career opportunities

The majority of students on computing and digital technology courses progress on to higher education and within NPTC Group of Colleges, we can offer our students degrees on their doorsteps. We have an ideal progression route where, following the successful completion of the Level 3 Extended Diploma or A Level programme in a related discipline, students can progress on to the HND Computing (two years) followed by the BSc (Hons) Applied Computing (third year).

To go on to higher education or secure employment in a range of business and technology focused organisations, many students study computer related courses. Some of the organisations that employ past students and graduates include Fujitsu, NPTCBC, The Good IT Company, BVG Group, Tech-Wales Ltd, Box UK, DVLA, CGI, Arvato CRM Solutions and Virgin Media.

Please note that if you are considering teaching as a career, universities require GCSEs at grade B or above for Maths, English and Science. For Computer Science courses some universities ask for a minimum of grade B at Maths GCSE.

Potential Career Opportunities: Software/Apps Design and Development, Cyber Forensics, Games Design and Development, Web Design / Development, Systems Analysis, Database Development / Administration, Technical Support, Network and Security.

CoursES

A Levels Level Entry Requirements

Computer Science

3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including Mathematics (grade B or above) and Eng lish Language (grade C or above).

Digital Technology 3 6 GCSEs at C or above to include Maths and English.

Career-Focused Courses

Level Entry Requirements

Diploma in IT 1 2 GCSEs (grades E or F).

Duration Location

2 Years Neath

2 Years Neath

Duration Location

1 Year Neath/ Brecon/ Afan

Diploma in Esports 2 2 GCSEs (grades E or F).

Extended Certificate in Information and Creative Technology 2 3 GCSEs at grade C or above, including Mathematics or English Language, or Level 1 Diploma in a relevant subject (Merit or Distinction).

1 year Neath/ Newtown/ Brecon

1 Year Neath/ Brecon

Diploma in Digital Technology (Networking and Cyber Security) 2 3 GCSEs at grade C or above, or success ful completion of Level 1 Diploma in IT. 1 Year Neath/ Brecon

Extended National Diploma in IT with Digital Interactive Media 3

5 GCSEs at grade C or above, including Mathematics and English Language. Applicants via Level 2 Extended Certificate / Diploma in a relevant subject (Merit or Distinction).

2 Years Neath

Extended National Diploma in Esports 3 5 GCSEs at grade C or above, including Mathematics and English Language. 1 Years Neath/ Newtown/ Brecon

Access to HE DiplomaComputing and Digital Technology 3

Applications can be made from learners who have been out of compulsory education for 3 years or more and/or do not hold any formal qualifications.

1 Year Neath/ Brecon

Student Success

Seven incredibly talented Computing and IT Students took Skills Competition Wales by storm recently, taking nearly half of all the top spots in the Cyber Security, Coding Skills and Web Design categories.

Skills Competition Wales, delivered by the Inspiring Skills Excellence in Wales project on behalf of the Skills Ambassador Network, is designed to raise the profile of skills in Wales. Focusing on growth areas and the needs of the economy, the competition helps boost the skillsets of the future workforce.

Skills Competition Wales is aligned to WorldSkills, with many competitors going on to compete in WorldSkills UK competitions. 

Web Design Gold: Juned Miah 

Web Design Silver: Oliver Smith 

Coding Bronze: Rhys Watkins 

Inclusive Skills ICT Silver: Holly Davies

“I’m incredibly proud of all the students who competed. It’s a fantastic achievement demonstrating the talent that is here at NPTC Group of Colleges and also a testament to the expertise and support provided by our teaching staff.’’ Eira Williams, Director of Studies

open the brand new Esports suite at Neath College.

Esports is competitive video gaming and has been around for a few years now. It can be as an individual or playing in a team and the teams work together like they would in traditional sport and play against other players from around the world.

The culture of Esports is not just about playing games, it can help individuals boost strategic thinking, teamwork, communication, leadership, performance skills and confidence building. Lois Samuel, who is the Female Ambassador for Esports Wales and a former NPTC Group of Colleges student, had this message to any girls who want to get involved in Esports:

“Go for it, it doesn’t matter that you’re a girl. Just go and do it, because I sat down and thought I can’t do anything in Esports because I’m a girl and now I’m an ambassador, a coach and I play League of Legends every day. If you genuinely love gaming, then don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do it because you absolutely can.”

The college teams took part in their first Esports matches on the 26th of January 2022, with the NPTC Crimson Ravens team playing Overwatch and the NPTC Magic Missiles playing Rocket league.

NPTC Group of Colleges welcomed Welsh gaming stars John Jackson AKA Slayer and Lois Samuel AKA Kitsch to formally

Juned Miah

CONSTruction and t Built envirONment

Building the Future

A new suite of qualifications will be introduced across Wales that have been developed with employers to better meet the skills needs of the built environment sector in Wales.

The change aims to simplify the complex landscape of more than 400 qualifications in construction and building services in Wales and to ensure you are better prepared for careers across the sector. There’ll be an increased focus on new and traditional techniques, on knowledge of the industry as a whole and on the generic skills needed to progress into work from education.

The brand new refurbished Maesteg Construction Centre of Excellence has a range of full and part-time construction courses to suit any level. We focus on delivering excellence in teaching and learning whilst training to help all students achieve their potential. We are enthusiastic about helping you achieve your education goals and land your dream job! Our construction courses focus on skills that can be applied directly to the workplace or further study, giving you the knowledge to pursue a career in the construction industry.

Construction Skills (Multi Trade – Pre Foundation)

Construction Skills Level 1 is a full-time, further education course designed for students who are interested in a career in the construction industry. The course consists of a knowledge of health and safety, practical and theory sessions from some of the following depending on chosen College: Bricklaying, Plastering, Carpentry, Painting or Tiling.

Level 2 Foundation Construction and Built Environment

The Level 2 Foundation Construction and Built Environment is a brand new qualification where you study two trade experiences from the following: q Working with brick, block and stone q Wood occupations q Painting and decorating q Plastering and interior systems q Wall and floor tiling.

The Construction and Building Services industry has around three million workers in the UK, making it one of the country’s biggest employers. The industry requires a large number of newly trained operatives each year in order to keep up with demand. Jobs are available across all areas and with salaries rising at the moment, there’s never been a better time to join this rewarding industry.

Training takes place in spacious and well-equipped workshops where students have the chance to develop new knowledge and skills which will equip them for a successful career in the construction industry.

What will I do?

Tuition is carried out by qualified staff with industry experience who focus on developing students’ skills. Many of our staff are former students of the College and understand how to make learning interesting and enjoyable and are able to get the best out of students.

You will cover practical craft skills, job knowledge and advanced trade techniques in your chosen path. You will also learn the interpretation of construction drawings and the calculation of materials and costings. Students are also encouraged to participate in skills competitions as a means of enhancing their practical ability and developing higher level skills.

Assessment

To achieve this qualification, learners must complete:

q One externally set, externally marked multiple-choice test

q One externally set, internally marked project covering two trade areas

q One externally set, internally marked guided discussion

q One externally set, internally marked health and safety test.

Progression

On completion, the qualification will provide a broad foundational knowledge across the construction or built environment industry as well as introductory knowledge and skills in two chosen pathways. The qualification provides the knowledge to progress on to further study:

q Progression in Construction Level 2 (Full-time) –City & Guilds

q Construction Level 3 Two-year (Part-time Apprenticeship) –City & Guilds

q Construction Level 3 Three-year (Part-time Apprenticeship) – City & Guilds

The qualification provides sufficient knowledge for learners to progress into an apprenticeship within the sector in their choice of trade.

Who is the qualification for?

It is suitable for:

q Learners aged 16+ currently working in or intending to work in the construction and built environment sector

q Site operatives who want to widen their knowledge, understanding and skills in the sector more generally

q Learners will need to have achieved, or be working towards their Level 2 Essential Skills English and Maths (or equivalent). There are no other additional entry requirements for this qualification.

Student Success

Sammy’s Going for SkillBuild Gold

Adult-learner Sammy Young is devoted to carpentry. “I go to sleep thinking about rooms, I wake up thinking about joinery”, says the inspiring apprentice joiner and carpenter.

Mum-of-three Sammy, 43, who won the silver medal in the WorldSkills UK national finals in 2021, is aiming to go one better this autumn after qualifying again this year at the heats in South Devon heats. She will compete for gold against the very best of her carpentry peers at SkillBuild, an event described as the “UK’s construction Olympics”.

Sammy is a full-time student at Neath College and currently studying two part-time courses, Level 1 Joinery and Level 3 Carpentry. She also was award the CEO Student of the Year 2022, as well as an Inspiring Skills Excellence in Wales Winner.

CoursES

Career-Focused Courses

Construction Skills (Multi Trade –Pre Foundation)

In the meantime, at a time of year when many people are thinking of returning to learning, Sammy has encouraging words for adult learners. “The advice I would give to anyone considering coming back into education or changing their career, is go for it!"

Sammy, who is originally from London but has lived in south Wales for 17 years, loved carpentry at school but, like many people, things didn’t go to plan when school ended.

However, since returning to joinery Sammy, who juggles a lot of tasks in a busy lifestyle, says that through adult learning she has found her “happy place”. “When I was at school, I was amazing at carpentry and I was top of the class throughout, but then other things happened and I forgot it’s what I loved doing,” she recalls.

“I signed up on a carpentry course at short notice and within the first week I knew it was what I was meant to be doing. It was the best thing I’ve ever done and the only thing I’ve focussed on”.

Level Entry Requirements

Duration Location

1 No formal qualifications

2 GCSE in English and Maths, grade D or above.

AVAILABLE TRADE ROUTES:

1 Year Brecon Maesteg NeathSwansea

1 Year Maesteg Neath Swansea Foundation in Construction and the Built Environment

Carpentry & Joinery / Roofing

Brecon Neath Swansea Brickwork / Construction Civils

Brecon Maesteg Neath Swansea Plastering / Construction Civils Neath Swansea

Painting & Decorating /Wall and Floor Tiling Neath

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Construction & the Built Environment (Civil Engineering)

3

5 GCSEs at grades A*-C to include either Maths, English or Welsh and Science (6 GCSEs if only Maths, English or Welsh are achieved). BTEC First Certificate or Diploma in Construction at Merit or Distinction.

2 Years Neath

Sammy Young

Dance, Music and PerFORmINg ARts

The School of Creative, Visual and Performing Arts offers full-time courses in Art and Design, Media Production and Performing Arts based at the Neath and Afan Colleges.

Classes are taught in a creative environment, using cuttingedge industry standard equipment within purpose-built specialist facilities including our purpose-built theatre, Nidum Arts Centre.

We will give you the opportunity to extend your learning and skills in our music academy and theatre and dance companies. Extensive one-to-one support is provided with applications to conservatoires and top dance and performing arts universities and we ensure that you will be ‘audition ready’. Our students do progress and importantly become really employable – we aim to help you be career ready!

We also offer extensive extra-curricular programmes including the College choir, Funk Band and LIFT Dance Company, the Duke of Edinburgh Award, and much more.

What will I do?

Our courses provide exciting and challenging opportunities through specialist training in music, composition, dance, drama, singing and musical theatre. You will be given the opportunity to be involved in a wide range of performance activities as part of the College’s theatre, dance and music companies, making use of our professional studios and fully equipped Nidum Arts Centre.

CoursES

A Levels Level Entry Requirements

Duration Location

Dance

3 6 GCSEs A*-C

2 Years Neath Drama

3 6 GCSEs A*-C

3 6 GCSEs A*-C. You should be a confident performer, with the MINIMUM ability of grade 5 on your instrument/voice for AS and a MINIMUM ability of grade 6 for A2 Level. An ability to read staff notation is desirable, or at least a desire to do so. Grade 5 theory (ABRSM) is an ideal preparation for the course, although not essential.

Level Entry Requirements

GCSE Dance

Grass Roots Theatre Company OCR Diploma in Performing Arts

Impact Theatre Company Extended Diploma in Performing Arts with WBQ

One Vision Dance Company/BTEC Extended Diploma in Dance Students can choose to study a Level 3 qualification alongside A Level Dance and/or Welsh Baccalaureate.

BTEC Technical Diploma in Music

2 No formal qualifications required. Dance experience is desired.

2 2 GCSEs A*-C or an appropriate Level 1 qualification.

3 5 GCSEs at A*-C including English. A relevant Level 2 qualification. Previous performance experience is desirable.

3 5 GCSEs A*-C including English/A relevant Level 2 qualification. Previous dance experience is not essential, but students should have an interest in training across multiple dance styles. Students are able to study A Level Dance alongside this course.

2 2 GCSEs at grade C or above. Successful applicants will be selected via interview and audition. The criterion will include being judged on their interest and experience in music plus an audition on an instrument or voice at around grade 3 standard.

2 Years Neath

2 Years Neath Music

BTEC Extended Diploma in Music

Students can choose to study a Level 3 qualification alongside an A Level. For example, BTEC Extended Diploma in Music with A Level Music.

3 5 GCSEs A*-C including English. A relevant Level 2 qualification and successful applicants will be selected via interview and audition. This will include being judged on their interest and experience in music plus an audition on an instrument or voice at around grade 5 standard.

Duration Location

1 Year Neath

1 Year Neath

2 Years Neath

2 Years Neath

1 Year Neath

2 Years Neath

Career-Focused Courses

Vocational

Student Success

The following students have achieved EXCELLENT Dance results in both BTEC Level 3 Dance with A Level Dance. They are going on to train at the UK's leading higher education courses for professional dance and performance.

Carlie Harris - D*D*D* A progressing to study at London Studio Centre.

Amelia Coombs - D*D*D* B progressing to study at Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts.

Molly Lewis - D*DD progressing to study at the Addict Dance Academy.

Molly Richards - DDD B progressing to study at the Addict Dance Academy.

Ellie Whiles - DDD A progressing to study at Performers College.

Nadia Brayley - DDM B progressing to study at Middlesex University.

Ruby Bennett - DDD A progressing to higher education and training in 2023.

Sarah Hopkins - D progressing to Performers College.

Amelia Coombs

Carlie Harris

Molly Richards

Molly Lewis

Ellie

Whiles

Nadia Brayley

Ruby Bennett

Sarah Hopkins

Student Success

Lauren Drew

NPTC Group Of Colleges alumna and West End star Lauren Drew blew the country away by reaching the semi-finals of The Voice. Her ground-shaking rendition of Jessie J’s song ‘Mama Knows Best’ as her blind audition debut was an incredible performance, and got all four judges to hit their buttons and turn around, making it the first four-judge turn of the season. Judge Tom Jones, who was born in Pontypridd, was so impressed by her, he tagged Jessie J in a tweet so she could watch Lauren sing her song. Lauren is no stranger to the stage and has a number of critically acclaimed performances under her belt. She has performed in many theatre shows such as Six, Evita, Sweet Charity, Heathers The Musical, Kinky Boots, and Ghost.

As a graduate of Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts (2016), Lauren is constantly pushing herself and developing her professional career. Hailing from Port Talbot, Lauren began her journey to the stage by pursuing Drama and Music GCSEs. She chose to attend NPTC Group of Colleges to study for a BTEC Diploma in Performing Arts which set her on the right path to win a place at Mountview Academy.

The Head of School for Creative, Visual, and Performing Arts, Victoria Burroughs, had this to say about Lauren: “When Lauren studied BTEC Level 3 Performing Arts at Neath College, the lecturing team saw how much potential, raw talent, and commitment that Lauren had in her. It was clear back then that Lauren had a fantastic future ahead of her in the performing arts industry. It has been a pleasure to see Lauren’s professional performance career go from strength to strength."

Student of The Year - Thomas Howell

A Level Music student Thomas Howell sat his ABRSM Piano Diploma and Grade 8 Voice a few days before lockdown. Tom achieved an incredible 48/50 in his Piano Diploma and a Distinction in his Grade 8 Voice. During lockdown, Tom has continued to work hard to

achieve further qualifications, including an Honours in a Composition Diploma, and he sat his Grade 8 theory exam in the July.

Tom, who moved to Chichester in August to take his place as the Organ Scholar at Chichester Cathedral, commented: “To say I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Music Academy is an understatement. Neath College also provides instrumental and vocal tuition with visiting tutors who are experts in their field. Through this scheme, I’ve attained distinctions in both ABRSM Grade 8 Voice and ARSM Diploma on Piano. Students are encouraged to work independently and acquiring this skill is relevant for working in the wider industry. Participating in a plethora of extra-curricular activities is what has made my time spent here so valuable.”

This is a position that is normally offered to older and more experienced students but Thomas’s sheer excellence as a musician and dedication to his studies has earned him this place.

He continued: “Collaborative music-making is a central aspect of college life including big band, small ensembles, choir and chamber choir to name but a few. I’ve also had the opportunity to develop my conducting skills by conducting the chamber choir in the national Music for Youth Festival in Birmingham Town Hall. We presented a varied programme of choral excellence. Opportunities such as working in pit orchestras and even performing Handel’s organ concerto in F and Mozart’s Symphony in G minor first movement. I cannot endorse the Music Academy more strongly – it is impossible to mention all the experiences that I’ve gained from my two years at Neath College. I know for certain that I’ve gained lifelong friends and the necessary armour to face the exciting life of professional music-making”.

engINeerINg

Engineering is a hugely exciting field with very many different study and career options. Our excellent courses enable you to develop the skills and knowledge to progress to employment or higher education.

An engineering career will provide you with excellent pay, lots of variety in your work and high levels of job satisfaction. Whichever discipline you choose, building a strong foundation of knowledge with an Engineering course can start you out on your journey to success.

Our close relationship with the industry ensures that we are in step with the latest technological advances, giving you the very best training available.

What will I do?

Mechanical/Maintenance Engineering

Mechanical/Maintenance Engineering involves many different routes including analysis, design, manufacturing and maintenance of mechanical systems. You will develop a solid understanding of key concepts. Mechanical/Maintenance Engineers use these principles and others in the design and analysis of specialist components in a variety of sectors.

Our purpose-built industry-specific workshops and classrooms house state-of-the-art engineering equipment and computers. Workshops contain manual lathes, milling machines and engineering benches, while separate specialised workshops and classrooms contain Haas advanced (CNC) Computer Numerical Controlled machines in both milling and turning, Computer Aided Design (CAD) and 3D printing technology.

Vocational

Our hydraulics and pneumatics/electro-pneumatics workshop houses many vital test rigs and these apparatus within the industry are essential to test and assess the capability and performance of components for industrial use.

Fabrication and Welding

The fabrication and welding industry requires highly skilled people and there are many employment opportunities. Employment in areas such as energy, oil and gas, engineering maintenance and industrial manufacturing are all accessible with a qualification in this discipline. Our highly skilled lecturers will support and guide you through the basics of this industry and students completing the course will understand how welding integrates into an engineering system.

Our industrial specification purpose built fabrication and welding workshops house high-quality equipment, covering all aspects of welding applications, including Metal Inert Gas (MIG), Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG), Manual Metal Arc (MMA), and Destructive and Non-Destructive Testing (DT/NDT) CNC Plasma machines.

Career opportunities

q Strong links with over 100 local, regional and national employers

q Great progression opportunities to university and excellent apprenticeship programmes

q Fantastic state-of-the-art engineering facilities

q Courses matched to industry standards to meet skills needed

q One of the most in-demand, growing sectors of industry.

CoursES

Career-Focused Courses

Level 1 in Engineering 1 4 GCSEs at grade D and above.

Enhanced Engineering 2 4 GCSEs at grade A*-C including Maths and English.

Fabrication and Welding 2 4 GCSEs at grade A*-D including Maths and English.

Mechanical Engineering 2 4 GCSEs at grade A*-C including Maths and English.

General Engineering 2 4 GCSEs at grade A*-C including Maths and English.

Fabrication and Welding 3 4 GCSEs at grades A*-C including Maths and English. Level 2 Welding qualification or equivalent.

General Engineering 3 4 GCSEs at grade A*-C including Maths and English or a pass at L2 in a relevant engineering discipline.

BTEC Engineering Technology 3 As required by Skills Council. 5 GCSEs at grade A*-C including Maths, English or Welsh.

Duration Location

1 Year Neath

1 Year Neath

1 Year Neath

1 Year Neath

1 Year Neath

1 Year Neath

1 Year Neath

1 Year Neath

Stevie Williams Student Success

Stevie Williams –Award Finalist Stevie has career stability with an apprenticeship.

Apprentice Stevie Williams has swapped her job in customer services to pursue her dream career teaching engineering.

Stevie, 36, from Goytre, Port Talbot, secured a job as a mechanical engineering technician and instructor at NPTC Group of Colleges after completing a Performing

Vocational

Engineering Operations Level 2 Mechanical Engineering Foundation Apprenticeship and Vocationally-Related Qualification (VRQ) six months early.

After completing an Apprenticeship and VRQ Level 3 she is now perusing a Certificate in Education (PGCE) and possible Degree Apprenticeship to fulfil l her ambition of becoming an engineering lecturer.

Foundation STudiES

Our foundation programmes allow students to develop the key skills in independent living, health and wellbeing, community and employability through a person-centred approach.

The courses offered are full or part-time and the staff delivering have a wide range of vocational expertise as well as extensive experience in working with learners with additional learning needs. Each course includes a structured timetable, study support, chill out/quiet rooms, enrichment activities and an introduction to College life and Further Education. Students will follow a pathway which develops communication, literacy, numeracy and digital literacy skills and from this comes improved confidence and strengthened personal, social and emotional skills required for learning and life.

You do not need any formal qualifications; just a desire to participate in the learning activities we offer. It is possible to try lots of different subjects depending on your individual interests. This helps you to find out what you enjoy, what you are good at and help you with your future choices. You can work at your own level and speed, but extra help is available as part of the course and, through learning support and tutorials, we are able to cater for a wide range of needs. Our staff are qualified, experienced teachers with specialist skills to deliver the courses offered in a supportive and caring environment.

We hold employability and progression events with employers and support agencies. The school runs a number of enterprise and volunteering activities and encourages students to participate in a variety of competitions at both regional and national levels including Skills Competition Wales, ILS sports tournaments.

Our students create pop-up shops and mobile enterprises and we ensure that students make links with supported employment organisations. Work experience has also been set up through the College’s work-based learning department.

Students undertake an initial educational and life skills needs assessment during the transition and induction process. Tutors then work with students to identify their long and short-term aims and suitable targets and routes for progression are then agreed and reviewed at regular intervals.

Our courses offer learners an introduction to college and opportunities to sample various vocational areas such as construction, horticulture and catering from which they can then make an informed decision on future progression routes.

Over 95% of students progressed to higher-level foundation studies courses, mainstream College courses, supported employment, or voluntary services.

Be INspirational wITh a cAReer IN foundation STudiES

Gateway Health and Social Care

Lauren Parsons

Lauren’s perseverance throughout the year is an inspiration to all students, she has had some health issues but this did not stop her attending college nor completing her work online and achieving success in gaining her qualifications. Her resilience was and still is unwavering.

Lauren participates in disability sports and helps coach and mentor young players. She is involved in a number of

CoursES

Full-time Courses

Life SkillsPathways 1 & 2

Social Education Pathways 2

Vocational

fundraising activities for a variety of charities and would like to go into youth advocacy and justice.

Lauren has progressed onto our Gateway Health and Social Care Level 1 course in Afan College.

Entry Requirements

No formal qualifications required

No formal qualifications required

Work Skills Pathways 2 No formal qualifications required

Vocational Sampling and Vocational PreparationPathways 3

Gateway to Further Education

Gateway to Work Pathways 4

Gateway Level 1 in Health and Social Care

Gateway Level 1 Creative Arts

No formal qualifications are required but a desire to participate in all learning activities must be demonstrated at interview.

No previous knowledge is required for these courses. Acceptance onto a course will be through the College's application and interview process. Learners need to be able to demonstrate an ability to work at least at Entry 3 prior to this course. Learners must have a positive work ethic and demonstrate an interest in skills development. The courses include practical trades, performing arts, music, catering, IT and health and social care.

This course is a one year full-time internship programme, supporting learners with Additional Learning Needs to gain employment with work experience in real life internship placements. Learners will attend approximately two days in the workplace and one day in the classroom for formal teaching.

GCSEs at E/F grades or successful completion of Entry 3 qualifications.

GCSEs at E/F grade or successful completion of an Entry 3 qualification.

Duration Location

1 Year Afan/ Brecon

1 Year Afan

1 Year Afan/ Neath/ Brecon

1 Year Neath/ Brecon

1 Year Afan/ Brecon/ Neath

1 Year Afan/ Brecon/ Neath

1 Year Neath

1 Year Neath

Lauren Parsons

Horticulture is a diverse and dynamic industry that includes the commercial production of fruit, vegetables, flowers and ornamental plants as well as the design, establishment and maintenance of parks, gardens, leisure and sports grounds, open spaces and managed landscapes.

Horticulture is a worldwide industry varying in scale from large multinational companies to small entrepreneurial organisations and companies. Local authorities, botanical gardens and The National Trust are also big employers. At home and abroad, British-trained horticulturists are always in high demand.

We offer a range of horticulture and gardening courses that provide you with the skills and training needed to succeed in a career in this sector. With our fantastic facilities including modern greenhouses and outdoor stock beds filled with an intriguing range of plants, you are sure to enjoy the real outdoor experience. Planted areas include a Mediterranean herb garden, a wildlife haven and elements of gardens recreated from our successful Gold Medal winning gardens at various shows around the country.

Average annual earnings

What will I do?

Lessons combine classwork and practical work, emphasising the wide range of skills needed for employment in the horticulture/gardening industry. You will also be expected to attend work experience placements, gaining valuable on the job experience. You are also given the opportunity to develop enterprise skills through a number of sales activities throughout the year! Students will also enjoy planting and nurturing a range of herbs and vegetables that are freshly picked for serving in Blasus Restaurant at Neath College.

Career opportunities

Nursery work

Garden design

Plant production

Landscaping

Science

Tree surgeon

Gardening and horticultural industry £30k - £60k 2,384 Jobs in Wales by 2024 (Careers Wales)

Retail garden centres

Plant propagation

Groundsmanship

Organics

GARDEnINg and HORticulture CoursES

HAirdressINg

Welcome to the Lee Stafford Academy of Hairdressing, Barbering and Applied Therapies, the first and only one of its kind in Wales.

Not just a celebrity endorsement, the training programme has been developed by Lee himself with specialists to train not only the students, but also our own experienced hair and barbering staff. You will learn specially designed ‘recipes’ which are unique to Lee Stafford Academies, reflecting some of the most cutting-edge styles seen in salons across the UK. These provide training in specialist skills that you can’t get anywhere else.

You will receive training in up to 22 fundamental skills and techniques which you will learn to what Lee calls ‘Michelin standard’. Once accomplished in these techniques, you are then encouraged to use your creativity with no bounds.

These skills can be tested in national competitions with other Lee Stafford Academy students in FE Colleges across the UK during the academic year.

We’re aiming to make our hair and barbering students the most employable in the country, so if you're serious about hair, NPTC Group of Colleges is the place for you!

Vocational

What will I do?

You will cover cutting, styling and setting skills, colouring, shampooing and conditioning, client consultation (including the recognition of diseases and disorders of the hair and scalp), basic salon health and safety, essential skills and retail. At Level 3 you will undertake advanced cutting, styling skills, bridal hair, colouring, advanced salon health and safety, client consultation, retail, IT and communication skills.

As part of this programme, learners will be required to attend a work placement at an external organisation for at least one day per week or for a two-week block and a twilight/evening commercial session at the College.

Career opportunities

No other industry has such a constant worldwide demand for qualified, creative, well-trained individuals. The hair industry offers bright opportunities with careers in the fashion industry and working behind the scenes in film, theatre and TV.

It also offers the independence to start your own salon.

q Barbering

q Colour technician

q Salon owner

q Senior stylist

q Wedding hairdresser

q Working on cruises.

AwARd-WINnINg LEe STaffORd returns TO Afan College wITh his GolDEn ScissORs

Fresh from his most recent award success, Lee Stafford returned to his Academy of Hairdressing, Barbering & Applied Therapies at Afan College to present three lecturers with a very special award.

Hairdressing staff were awarded their Master Trainer Diploma, also known as the ‘Golden Scissors’, for hitting their ‘Big 10’ outcomes in all Level 2 and Level 3 recipes. Lee explained: “The Golden Scissors are given only when they can replicate recipes as well as me. It’s no easy task. It normally takes two years; they have to video themselves doing every single recipe, then send it into our team. We assess it against the Lee Stafford Education video. Did they follow the steps that I did? Did they get the same results? And when they can do every recipe to a ‘Big 10’ standard, that’s our Michelin Star equivalent, they get the Golden Scissors."

This is on top of the Lee Stafford Education Foundation being named winner of the first-ever Education Expert category at the annual Most Wanted Awards, held at the spectacular Tate Modern, London.

Lee and his team won the prestigious Most Wanted trophy, a prize from category sponsor Colour Start, publicity across the Creative HEAD brand for the duration of their winning year and the opportunity to appear at Creative HEAD events

The Education Expert trophy goes to an individual or team delivering exceptional education for the hairdressing industry. One of the most glamorous nights in the hairdressing calen dar, every year Most Wanted brings together industry icons, superstars, and tastemakers to celebrate the most exciting, progressive, and game-changing hair talents in the UK and Ireland.

CoursES

Career-Focused

Introduction to Hair and Beauty Services 1 2 GCSEs at grades D or above. 1 Year Afan/ Brecon

VTCT Diploma in Women’s Hairdressing 2 Level 1 Diploma in Hairdressing, plus 2 GCSEs at grades D or above. 1 Year Afan

VTCT VRQ Level 2 diploma in Hair and Media Makeup 2 2 GCSEs at grades D or above. 1 Year Afan

VTCT VRQ Diploma in Women’s Hairdressing 3 Level 2 Diploma in Hairdressing or have achieved 2 GCSEs at grades C or above/ or equivalent, or successful interview. 1 Year Afan/ Brecon

VTCT VRQ Diploma in Barbering 3 Aged 18 or over and have achieved the Level 2 Diploma in Hairdressing qualification. 1 Year Afan

Vocational

HEalth, Social and ChildcARe

The School of Health, Social and Childcare has courses designed to meet the needs of the community and prepare you for a career in this highly sought after industry. You will receive work-related training and some courses assess you in your workplace. This means that you will gain industry experience vital for progression on to higher education or employment, as well as the recognised qualifications needed for a career in the industry.

Healthcare workers need strong communication skills and a caring nature. Nursery workers can be employed in day nurseries and children’s centres or become childminders.

Staff in the School of Health, Social and Childcare are industry experts as well as lecturers. Our supportive and caring lecturers are committed to ensuring that students succeed.

The Head of Health, Social and Childcare chairs the Colegau Cymru HSC Network and sits on working groups in the local area in partnership with the local authority and related organisations.

Within the courses for Health, Social Care and Childcare, the delivery of bilingual units will be available for students.

What will I do?

Health and childcare workers need strong communication skills and a caring nature, and at College we will develop your skills through related work-based placements, focused on employability skills. You will be encouraged to complete a Welsh language course and enhance your interpersonal skills through group activities and fundraising events.

Career opportunities

Our courses can lead to a career as a teacher, teaching assistant, childcare practitioner, speech and language therapist, nurse, paramedic and social work. Many progress on to the many Health, Social and Childcare degree programmes at the College before entering employment.

Student Success

Health and Social Care Student Ffion Jones has won the Vocational Category at the prestigious British Education Awards (BEA). She became the first student from NPTC Group of Colleges to win the awards.

The BEA identifies and celebrates individuals who have excelled within the British education system. In doing so, these awards acknowledge that success comes down to personal endeavour and application.

Ffion won the award in recognition of her brilliant academic results and extracurricular success.

CoursES

She combined studying with two part-time jobs as well as being a Dementia Friends Champion, raising funds for the Alzheimer’s Society, and volunteering as a Police Cadet Leader with Dyfed Powys Police.

During her time as a cadet at Newtown’s St. John’s Centre, she has carried out work placements at Bethshan Nursing Home and Newtown Hospital. In addition to this, she has somehow found time to complete Bronze and Silver Duke of Edinburgh awards and achieve a Triple Distinction Star with 100% attendance in her Level 3 BTEC in Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care.

A Levels Level Entry Requirements

Health and Social Care 3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above including Maths, English Language and Science.

Career-Focused Courses

Level Entry Requirements

Duration Location

2 Years Neath

Duration Location

Health and Social Care: Principles and Contexts 2 2 GCSEs at grade C or above including Maths and/or English Language. Science would be beneficial. 1 Year Afan/ Brecon

Health and Social Care: Principles and Contexts 3 5 GCSEs at grade C or above including Maths, English Language and Science.

Children’s Care, Play, Learning and Development: Principles and Context 2 2 GCSEs grade C or above including, Maths or English Language.

Children’s Care, Play, Learning and Development: Principles and Context 3 5 GCSEs at grade C or above including Maths and English Language.

Access to HE - Health Care 3

This course caters for students 19 and over who are hoping to return to education. Students will have to complete a successful interview.

2 Years Afan/ Brecon/ Neath

1 Year Afan

2 Years Afan/ Brecon/ Neath

1 Year Afan

Ffion Jones

Building the Future

A new suite of qualifications were introduced across Wales that have been developed with employers to better meet the skills needs of the built environment sector in Wales.

The change aims to simplify the complex landscape of more than 400 qualifications in construction and building services in Wales and to ensure you are better prepared for careers across the sector. There’ll be an increased focus on new and traditional techniques, on knowledge of the industry as a whole and on the generic skills needed to progress into work from education.

The Foundation Qualification for Building Engineering Services is a brand new qualification where you study two trade experiences:

q Plumbing and domestic heating

q Electro technical systems and equipment (electrical installation).

The building engineering services industry has around three million workers in the UK, making it one of the country’s biggest employers. The industry requires a large number of newly trained operatives each year in order to keep up with demand. Jobs are available across all areas and with salaries rising at the moment, there’s never been a better time to join this rewarding industry.

Training takes place in spacious and well-equipped workshops where students have the chance to develop new knowledge and skills which will equip them for a successful career in the construction industry.

What will I do?

Tuition is carried out by industrially experienced and qualified staff who focus on developing students’ skills. Whilst you will initially study for both electrical and plumbing trades, you will later choose one pathway.

You will cover practical craft skills, job knowledge and advanced trade techniques in plumbing and electrical installation. You will also learn the interpretation of construction drawings and the calculation of materials and costings. Students are also encouraged to participate in skills competitions as a means of enhancing their practical ability and developing higher level skills.

Assessment

To achieve this qualification, students will complete a range of internally and externally set projects/tasks, guided discussions and multiple choice tests.

Progression

You may progress to a second year full-time programme in both trade areas or secure an apprenticeship as a plumber or electrician and further your studies with us along one specific pathway.

Who is the qualification for?

It is suitable for:

Vocational Apply Online b www.nptcgroup.ac.uk

Learners aged 16+ currently working in or intending to work in the construction and building engineering services sectors.

For those with a greater interest in electrical, they will be based at Afan. For those with a greater interest in plumbing, they will be based at Neath.

Are you interested in working on board cruise ships, super yachts, international hotels or Michelin star restaurants?

Or you may just want to set up your own hospitality business. These are just some of the opportunities offered to you in the hospitality industry.

The hospitality and culinary arts industry is one of the largest industries in the UK, with a wealth of job opportunities available at home and abroad. Career paths include chefs, food and drink service, hotel management, events management, restaurant management, bakers and patisserie chefs, contract catering, product development and food manufacturing.

The College runs two busy training restaurants offering the highest level of service to the public: Themes at Newtown College and Blasus at Neath College. Between them, the restaurants provide table theatre, silver service and a roast of the day, carved at the table from our silver trolley. We also operate a busy coffee lounge and bakery shop. All our outlets serve a range of locally-sourced produce including beef and lamb reared on the College farm and vegetables and herbs cultivated by the horticulture department.

The Blasus Bakery Academy has been providing bakery training for more than fifty years. With one of the most significant provisions of its kind and the only Bakery Academy in Wales, students can develop skills that enable them to work in the manufacturing and bakery sector.

What will I do?

You will develop practical gained skills from working within the professional kitchens at our training restaurant Blasus which is open to the public, as well as the opportunities for real life work experience at local functions and national events. You will learn from established and experienced staff who are qualified in all aspects of the hospitality and catering industry.

Career opportunities

Vocational Apply Online b www.nptcgroup.ac.uk

If you’re looking for a ‘hands-on’ career with excellent employment opportunities and with currently a high demand for jobs within the industry, then hospitality is definitely a career for you.

We have strong links with local and international employers, and there are many opportunities for students to undertake part-time employment alongside their studies.

The College has a reputation for producing highly experienced and qualified students who repeatedly gain recognition at culinary competitions across the UK. Many students have gone on to positions all over the world as well as some holding senior positions in local establishments.

CoursES

Career-Focused

Introduction to Hospitality 1 No formal qualifications. Subject to interview. 1 Year Neath

C&G VRQ Diploma in Professional Cookery and Food Service 1 Subject to interview. 1 Year Neath

FDQ Diploma in Food Industry Bakery Skills 1 Subject to interview. 1 Year Neath

C&G VRQ Diploma in Professional Cookery and Food Service 2 Level 1 catering qualification or appropriate GCSE. 1 Year Neath

C&G VRQ Diploma in Professional Bakery (Patisserie and Confectionery) 2 Level 1 qualification in relevant subject or relevant experience. 1 Year Neath

C&G VRQ Advanced Professional Cookery 3 Level 2 qualification or relevant experience 1 Year Neath

C&G VRQ Diploma in Advanced Bakery, Patisserie and Confectionary Skills

C&G Diploma in Hospitality Supervision (Front of House)

Level 2 qualification or relevant experience 1 Year Neath

Level 2 qualification or relevant experience 1 Year Neath

Vocational

The Uniformed Public Services Sector is made up of many professions that protect and serve the population around the world. From rescuing climbers as part of the Mountain Rescue team, being deployed in the army as a medic or attending a crash site as a paramedic, police officer or fireman, these highly trained professionals are ready for active service in any emergency.

Many of the Public Services lecturers have been in active duty, using their expert knowledge, trips and activities to engage you and make you fully aware of the many career opportunities available.

What will I do?

Public Services students can enjoy the sector-leading sports facilities at Llandarcy Academy of Sport which include an international sports hall, climbing wall, strength and conditioning room, 60m indoor track, indoor barn multisport facility, 4G pitch, and teaching rooms with up-to-the-minute digital technology. The students can develop their fitness skills alongside the sports students and prepare themselves both physically and mentally for their chosen careers.

Brecon Beacons College

Brecon Beacons College is situated in the heart of Brecon Beacons National Park, an incredible environment for student to engage in a wide range of public services activities

alongside their Public Services course. Educational visits and trips are run to utilise the natural beauty of the area, from leadership sessions to team building and outdoor education tasks. Visits to local emergency services are arranged to strengthen the knowledge of the learners and develop much needed skills in readiness for their future careers. Some modules of the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Public Services can be taught through the medium of the Welsh language and students will be able to complete their assessments bilingually where possible.

Llandarcy Academy of Sport

At our Llandarcy Academy of sport, educational visits and trips are run to utilise the natural beauty of the area, from leadership sessions to team building and outdoor education tasks. Visits to local emergency services are arranged to strengthen the knowledge of the learners and develop much needed skills in readiness for their future careers.

Student Success

Emillie Hopkins

Level 3 Year 2 Public Services D*D*D*

Emilie was a keen student who is comfortable being an individual but has a good sense of being a team member and leader. She was an inspirational member of the college Combined Cadet Force where she was quickly promoted to Cadet Lance Corporal in recognition of her dedication and leadership skills, especially with younger

CoursES

Career-Focused Courses

cadets. Simultaneously she has been a Police Cadet for 5 years and was recently selected and awarded the prestigious honour of being the County High Sheriffs Police Cadet.

Emillie is now off to study an HND in Public Services and to obtain a top up degree, followed by becoming a police officer. She has also completed her Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

Level Entry Requirements

BTEC Combined Sport and Public Services 2

An appropriate range of GCSEs A*-E or a Level 1 qualification in Sport or Public Services.

BTEC Diploma in Preparation for Public Services 2 An appropriate range of GCSEs A*-E or a Level 1 qualification in Sport or Public Services.

BTEC Nationals Extended Diploma in Uniformed Protective Services and WBQ 3 5 subject specific GCSEs as requested and/or a Level 2 qualification in Sport or Public Services.

BTEC Nationals Extended Diploma in Uniformed Protective Services and WBQ 3 5 subject specific GCSEs as requested and/or a Level 2 Qualification in Sport or Public Services.

Duration Location

1 Year Brecon

1 Year Llandarcy

2 Years Brecon

2 Years Llandarcy

Students are encouraged to join the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) based at Llandarcy Academy of Sport which offers young people a broad range of challenging, exciting, adventurous and educational activities. The aim is to develop skills in personal responsibility, leadership and self-discipline. The CCF is an educational partnership between the College and the Ministry of Defence, and a CCF may include Royal Navy, Royal Marines, and Army or Royal Air Force sections.

Emillie Hopkins

SpORt

The sport, coaching and fitness industry is a fast-paced, dynamic and thriving area with an ever-increasing demand for qualified, motivated and professional staff.

The College has a long-standing reputation for sporting success, with many former students gaining international honours in a wide variety of sports including Duncan Jones, Adam Beard, Daniel James and Chelsea Lewis.

We are proud of our excellent results, on and off the sports field and the high-quality teaching that fuels our success. Coupled with excellent pastoral care, the College’s sports department epitomises our strapline, ‘more than just an education’.

Many of the sports staff have experience in playing and coaching top-level sports which is invaluable in developing students’ sporting abilities.

What will I do?

You can develop a wide variety of personal and vocational skills that will ensure you are able to progress towards pathways in either employment or a suitable university course.

Brecon Beacons College

The Sports Academy at Brecon Beacons College uses the facilities of Brecon Leisure Centre which include an athletics track, astroturf pitch, sports hall, tennis and netball courts and a swimming pool. On site, the Sports Academy has its own training pitch and strength and conditioning centre, which has benefitted the development of many athletes, like Dan Lydiate, over the years.

Vocational

Lectures are community coaches offering hockey and gymnastics, with Rhian Davies playing hockey for Welsh Masters.

Llandarcy Academy of Sport

Llandarcy Academy of Sport has an international sports hall, climbing wall, strength and conditioning room, indoor multisport facility, 4G pitch and teaching rooms with up-to-the-minute digital technology.

If you’re serious about sport, as part of the Sports Academy you will benefit from: q a structured training programme that is overseen by experienced coaches; personal performance monitored regularly by our team q training sessions and lectures are planned to avoid unnecessary clashes q the chance to compete in the successful NPTC Group of Colleges’ sporting teams q being part of national coaching schemes for your chosen sport.

Career opportunities

The wide range of courses we offer could lead to many careers including a sports coach, PE teacher, disability sports officer, sports therapist, sports analyst, sports nutritionist, gym instructor or sports development officer.

Academic progression includes higher education at the College or another institution. Some elite sportspeople can gain scholarships to study abroad. e.g. golf in America.

Be energetic wITh a cAReer IN spORt, coachINg and fITnESs

Student Success

It’s been another stellar year for our students at Llandarcy Academy of Sport as they achieved outstanding results. Just 12 months ago, it was in the hands of Swansea Bay University Health Board and operating as a field hospital in the fight against Covid-19. This meant that our students undertook a blended-learning approach to study, embracing new communication technologies.

Five members of the BTEC Level 3 Sport (Performance & Excellence) achieved the highest grade possible: Triple Distinction Star (D*D*D*).

Chloe Evans – An international netballer who received a sports bursary in her first year and became a Gold Youth Ambassador, Chloe has been accepted into Cardiff Metropolitan University to study Sport, Physical Education and Health and hopes to continue her international netball career.

Georgia Grange – The rugby and netball star is a name to look out for in the future! Georgia has been accepted into the prestigious Hartpury College to study for a Sports Coaching degree.

Victoria Powney – Victoria is a top karate and netballer performer who was awarded a sports bursary in her first year. Another Gold Youth Ambassador, she is off to study Sport and Exercise Science at Cardiff Metropolitan University.

Victoria said: “The best two years of my education without a doubt! From the lecturers to the facilities, Llandarcy Academy of Sport was amazing. I wouldn’t have wanted to have a better group of people around me. It has prepared me for university life; I am excited to move on but will miss everyone so much!”

Scott Hawkins – A talented rugby player and a key member of the successful NPTC Group of Colleges team, Scott was an enthusiastic member of the Gold Youth Ambassador Scheme and worked tirelessly, leading many sessions through the pandemic. Scott is going to Swansea University to study for a Sport and Exercise Science degree.

Aneurin Morgan – Another talented and enthusiastic rugby player, Aneurin has been given an unconditional

offer by Cardiff Metropolitan University to study for a degree in Sport, Physical Education and Health and has been training with the famous ‘Archers’ rugby team for the past three months.

BTEC Level 3 Sport (Coaching and Development) was achieved by six students with a D*D*D*.

Ffion France – A committed member of the women's football, rugby and netball squads, Ffion somehow found time to become a Gold Youth Ambassador. Working alongside the PASS officers at NPTCBC, she delivered talks to new young ambassadors at training events and led weekly online sessions with Foundation Studies students. Ffion has gained a place on the highly competitive Sports Therapy course at Birmingham City University.

Connor Rees – The budding entrepreneur is setting up his own sports therapy and massage business.

Ffion Maddock – Welsh cricket international Ffion was awarded a sports scholarship bursary in her first year of college for her exceptional sporting talent and became a Gold Youth Ambassador. A testament to her sporting prowess, Ffion received unconditional offers from various universities and has accepted an offer to study Sport, Physical Education and Health at Cardiff Metropolitan University.

Ffion’s lecturer, Jo Jones, said: “Ffion has been an exceptional student who has always maintained good work habits, follows all directions and has a positive attitude towards learning. Ffion always demonstrated an honest mindset whilst embracing the extra-curricular activities and will thrive in her higher education journey.” Katelyn Kneath a keen footballer and Gold Youth Ambassador, Katelyn has been accepted to Cardiff Metropolitan University to study Sport, Physical Education and Health.

Hannah Garnett – Welsh cricketer Hannah joins Katelyn on the Sport, Physical Education and Health degree course at Cardiff Metropolitan University.

Georgia Howells – The talented footballer is heading to the University of South Wales to study Sports and Exercise Therapy.

Chloe Evans

Ffion Maddock

Hannah Garnett

Victoria Powney

Vocational

Molly Goss, who achieved a D*D*D, and became the first BTEC sport student to be selected to study Osteopathy at Swansea University, said: “The course offered many different opportunities and has brilliant facilities on campus for students to use. The support and encouragement that I received from my tutor and lecturers throughout this difficult time was amazing and pushed me to complete my course to the best of my ability."

CoursES

Career-Focused Courses

Level Entry Requirements

Duration Location

Introductory Diploma in Sport 1 No formal qualifications 1 Year Llandarcy

BTEC Extended Certificate in Sport 2 2 GCSEs A*-E or a Level 1 qualification in Sport or Public Services 1 Year Llandarcy

Active IQ in Fitness and Exercise Instruction 2 4 GCSEs to include Maths or English 1 Year Llandarcy

BTEC Combined Sport and Public Services 2 An appropriate range of GCSEs A*-E or a Level 1 qualification in Sport or Public Services. 1 Year Brecon

BTEC National Extended Diploma in Sport Performance and Excellence 3 5 GCSEs to include Maths or English 2 Years Llandarcy/ Brecon

BTEC National Extended Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development 3 5 GCSEs (or equivalent) at grade C or above. 2 Years Llandarcy/ Brecon

Average annual earnings

Strength and Conditioning Coach £17k - £45k

Secondary School PE Teacher £25k+ Sport Development £18-£23k Sport Coaching £15-25k

Emsi: www.economicmodeling.com *www.prospects.ac.uk/job-profiles/exercise-physiologist

Sport Science £20k - £30k

If you work in high-profile sport science, your salary can exceed £60,000 and may reach up to £100,000* 5x30 Officer £20k Sport Analyst £24-43k

SpORt trapiES

Sports therapists use their knowledge and skills to treat sporting injuries, advise on injury prevention and support rehabilitation, using a range of physical techniques and therapies. Day-to-day as a sports therapist, you can be working with a range of different clients. Depending on whether you are employed or freelance, you could be working with sports professionals or everyday gym goers.

You could be treating injuries, which may be longstanding, identifying problem areas early, or help to prevent injuries before they occur.

What will I do?

The aim of our courses is to provide students with the opportunity to learn a range of practical skills that are needed in the field of managing and preventing sports injuries. These skills include sports massage, strapping and taping, fitness testing and rehabilitation of common sports injuries. The underpinning knowledge includes anatomy and physiology, working in a sporting environment and first aid pitch side duties.

Career opportunities

Sports therapy and sports massage have become sought after skills within the fitness industry. Sports massage therapists can help anyone – from athletes to occasional gym users – and will need to prevent injuries as much as treat them.

Student Success

Wayne Robson-Brown - One of our Sports Therapy lecturers in Afan College had the opportunity to work with some of the best athletes in the world while helping at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

Wayne was part of the medical team supporting the athletes at the Games and was based in the purpose-built Athlete’s Village, where he helped athletes prepare and recover from their competitions.

Wayne said: “I was privileged to work in the medical team supporting elite athletes from numerous countries, including South Africa, Canada, India, Nigeria, Jamaica, Kenya, Pakistan, and Barbados. These athletes competed in a range of sports including athletics and para-athletics, cycling, gymnastics, hockey, weightlifting, swimming, and para-swimming.”

“The highlight of my time in Birmingham was providing treatment to Tobi Amusan, who is the World Record holder for the 100m hurdles and won gold at the Games.”

“This isn’t the first time Wayne has worked on a high-profile event, having been a part of the medical team at both the Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2012. He says that working on events like these is the highlight of any sports therapist’s career and he is truly humbled by these experiences.”

Wayne Robson-Brown

College Life Create Your Own Experience

Student Support

Every student at NPTC Group of Colleges is important to us and we go the extra mile to ensure that the time you spend at College supports your individual needs.

We offer a range of support services that include:

q Admissions

q Careers

q Equality and diversity

q Student finance

q Professional counselling and wellbeing

q Safeguarding

q Specialist support for looked after children

q Study support for students with additional learning needs and/or disabilities.

If you feel you may benefit from additional support when you come to College, please tell us about this on your application form.

For more information, please email our Student Support team on: studentsupport@nptcgroup.ac.uk

College Fees, Costs and Funding

Tuition costs

The College does not charge tuition fees for full-time courses but all students are required to pay a nonrefundable administration fee upon enrolment.

Additional costs

There may be additional course costs for specialist equipment, clothing and travel. Students who attend structured work experience as part of their course may need a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check. Those who do will be expected to cover this cost.

Financial help

There are a range of options available to make student life a little easier on your pocket. These include:

q Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA)

q Welsh Government Learning Grant

q Financial Contingency Fund.

For more information, please email: studentsupport@nptcgroup.ac.uk

NPTC Group of CollegES’

STuDEnts’ Union

The Students' Union is run by the students, for the students. Their role is to make sure that student voices are heard at senior management level, listening to students from across the Colleges, holding events and campaigns all year round, helping you meet new people, and creating an inclusive and friendly student community. For more information, contact student-union@nptcgroup.ac.uk.

TOTUM, the UK’s number one student discount card. All students over 16 and studying more than 10 hours per week can buy a TOTUM card. Download the TOTUM app today for free and then to unlock a full year’s worth of discounts for £12. TOTUM gives you all year round deals like 10% off ASOS, 12% off 16-25 railcards, loads of Apple discounts, food and drink discounts, and 2 for 1 on your first two driving lessons with RED Driving School. Download the app today and see what you think! www.totum.com

www.nptcgroup.ac.uk

SerIOus About Sport

If you’re serious about Sport, as part of the Sports Academy you will benefit from: q a structured training programme that is overseen by experienced coaches; personal performance monitored regularly by our team q training sessions and lectures planned to avoid unnecessary clashes q the chance to compete in the successful NPTC Group of Colleges’ sporting teams q being part of national coaching schemes for your chosen sport.

If you compete regularly in a sport for club, county or national teams and are interested in joining our Sport Academies, check out: www.nptcgroup.ac.uk

SpORting SuccESs

RUGBY q Welsh Schools’ Cup Winners (8 times)

Welsh College Cup Winners (19 times)

British Colleges’ Cup Winners

Rosslyn Park 7s’ Winners

College Super 15s’ Winners

International Students q Ashley Beck q Justin Tipuric q Dan Lydiate

Adam Beard q James Hook q Lloyd Peers

James King q Eli Walker q Dan Baker

Dafydd Howells q Adam Jones q Duncan Jones

Darren Morris q Spencer John q Paul James

Leigh Davies q Arwel Thomas q Gwyn Jones

Craig Mitchell q Kerin Lake q Kiera Bevan

Gwen Crabb q Kelsey Jones q Lowri Norkett

NETBALL

Welsh Colleges’ League Champions

Finalists at the British Knock-out Cup International Students

Helen Jones q Amanda Cooper

Chelsea Lewis q Nicola James FOOTBALL

Welsh League Champions q Welsh 5-a-side Champions

Welsh 5-a-side Runner-up International Students

Daniel James q Ben Davies q Joe Allen

Connor Roberts q Joe Rodon q Ben Cabango OLYMPICS

Dan Jervis (Olympics)

PARALYMPICS q Rob Davies (Table Tennis)

INspired By Music

Music is one of the most established subjects at the College and students who join the Academy will benefit from expert tuition and training including specialist preparation for conservatoire applications, plus the opportunity to perform both internationally and in competitions and festivals across the UK.

“We are so proud of our music students past and present. NPTC Group of Colleges’ Music Academy offers a unique opportunity to its talented and committed young musicians who want to be inspired, challenged and encouraged in their aim to make the very most of their musical ability. We offer a special environment where all musical outlooks can be nurtured and their potential fulfilled.”

Vicky Burroughs, Head of Creative, Visual and Performing Arts

If you are interested in joining our Music Academy, check out: www.nptcgroup.ac.uk

DANIEL JERVIS

From NPTC Group of Colleges to the Olympic Games

NPTC Group of Colleges alumnus Daniel Jervis reached an Olympic final at his maiden Games in Tokyo. The 25-year-old swimmer from Resolven finished fifth in the final of the 1500-meter freestyle at this summer’s delayed games in Japan.

Jervis, who left NPTC Group of Colleges in 2014 after completing a Level 2 Diploma in Painting and Decorating, took up swimming to keep his grandfather company after he suffered a heart attack. Daniel joined him in the pool and hasn’t looked back since.

Jervis is no stranger to competing at the highest level of swimming. He competed at his first Commonwealth Games in 2014 within a week of graduating from NPTC Group of Colleges.

Daniel finished third in the 1500-meter freestyle at the Glasgow games in 2014. He then went one better at the 2018 Commonwealth Games in the Gold Coast, Australia winning a silver medal again in the 1500-meter freestyle. At the same games, he narrowly missed out on a second medal, finishing a close 4th in the 400-meter freestyle. Daniel also has experience of competing at World and European Championships on several occasions since leaving college.

After only just missing out on competing at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, Daniel finally got the chance to make his dream of competing at the Olympics a reality this summer.

Jervis, when interviewed by the BBC after his final ,said: “Yes, I’m part of Team GB and I’m British but I’m a Welshman. I’m very proud to represent Wales in there”, referring to the pool behind him.

He then went on to say that he had hoped to break the British record in the final of the 1500-meter, but it wasn’t to be on the night. Jervis added that he aims to break the British record that is currently held by fellow Welshman David Davies.

With the next Olympic Games in Paris, Daniel is already looking forward to the challenge:

“I’ve had my first Team GB experience now. Yes, Paris in three years’ time, obviously I know it’s not in Great Britain but it’s very much a home Games and I’m praying that this pandemic will be over by then and that fans will be there. I trust the process. I trust that I’m going to be on that podium. I deserve it, I’ll work for it, and I’ll be there.”

TIAAN THOMAS-WHEELER Osprey and Welsh International

Tiaan Thomas-Wheeler studied the Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Sport at Llandarcy Academy of Sport, made his debut for the Ospreys against Gloucester in the 2018 AngloWelsh Cup and has since gone on to feature for his region in the Pro 14. He played regularly for NPTC Group of Colleges in the Welsh Schools and College Development League.

In the 2019 World Rugby U20 Championship, he scored the vital try in Wales’s historic win over New Zealand.

A talented all-round sportsman, he represented Wales in cricket at junior levels as well as becoming a winner of NPTC Group of Colleges ‘Sportsman of the Year Award’.

“There’s no doubt I couldn’t have done this without the support of Neath College who have helped me to manage my rugby and education commitments.”

Tiaan Thomas Wheeler

Daniel Jervis

The Enterprise and Employability team provides a professional, supportive environment for students who are setting up their own business and includes access to a range of FREE* facilities and support including:

b Serviced office space

b Hot desk facilities for those who don’t require a full-time office space

b A professional business address

b Access to ICT including telephone, print and copying facilities

b A receptionist to answer calls and greet your clients

b Business support and guidance

b Access to specialist training workshops

b Executive meeting rooms

b Access to fully equipped training rooms

b Networking and collaborative working opportunities

b Access to reprographics facilities

b Free car parking.

*Terms and conditions apply

Career Ready at Centerprise is an employability programme supporting students with:

b Finding a part-time job

b CV writing

b Application forms

b Interviews

b Work experience.

For further details please contact us on: centerprise@nptcgroup.ac.uk

Welsh at t College

Welsh language and culture is an important part of the ethos of NPTC Group of Colleges. The College is aware of how being bilingual can benefit you in education, the workplace and in everyday life. Provision is expanding across many of our subject areas, giving you the opportunity and choice to study through the medium of Welsh or bilingually in the classroom or on your work placement.

We are here to support you should you wish to have a Welsh speaking personal tutor, study in Welsh, complete your assignments in Welsh, sit your exams in Welsh or receive your course materials and resources in Welsh whilst studying with us at the College... the choice is yours. We will also encourage you as a non-Welsh speaker or Welsh learner to develop your Welsh language skills, giving you better employment opportunities in the future.

If you don’t wish to study through the medium of Welsh but want to maintain your Welsh language skills, don’t worry; we have lots of fun activities throughout the year that will give you the opportunity to use your Welsh whatever your language level... Don’t be shy – siarad Cymraeg!

This symbol on course pages indicates that some courses, modules or aspects of courses can be undertaken through the medium of Welsh.

For more information, contact: cymraeg@nptcgroup.ac.uk

We want to give all those aspiring entrepreneurs the opportunity to realise their business dreams.

Group of Colleges is pleased to have developed a number of wide-ranging degree programmes in partnership with a range of prestigious higher education institutions. All our higher education courses have been designed with your employment and future careers in mind and we strive to give our graduates the best experience and knowledge to equip them for the working world. We are very proud of the quality of our courses and the staff who teach them. We have some of the leading specialists in their field, who have chosen to work at NPTC Group of Colleges for the benefit of our students - so take advantage of this opportunity! We have courses that cover many subjects, some of which are full-time and some part-time. For more detailed information on our courses,