NPTC Group of Colleges Full-time Courses 25/26 - South by NPTC Group of Colleges

#CHOIC E Fest Cou rsES FulL-tME 2025/26

Afan College • Brecon Beacons College • Llandarcy Academy of Sport

Maesteg Construction Centre of Excellence • Neath College

Swansea Construction Centre • Pontardawe College

Afan College

Margam, Port Talbot, SA13 2AL

Brecon Beacons College

Penlan, Brecon, LD3 9SR

Y Gaer (Part of Brecon Beacons College) Glamorgan Street, Brecon, LD3 7DW

The CWTCH

(The former Tourist Information Centre) Cattle Market Car Park, Heol Gouesnou, LD3 7BA

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 4EN

Swansea Construction Centre

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

General Enquiries

Tel: 0330 818 8100

Email: enquiries@nptcgroup.ac.uk

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

Be Inspired and Be Your Future

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 you 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.

Don’t forget, as an NPTC Group of Colleges student you have access to:

Grab a f e b akf t fru e ry m n g

Grab a f e b akf t fru

Grab a f e b akf t fru e ry m n g

e ry m n g

Grab a f e b akf t fru e ry m n g

Grab a free breakfast every morning

Grab a f e b akf t fru e ry m n g

W e r aca mic, sp ng, cultural burs i schol ships *

Win one of our academic, sportng, and cultural bursaries or scholarships*

W e r aca mic, sp ng, cultural burs i schol ships *

Claim up £40 a w k w h EMA, plus f cial su t*

plus f cial su t*

Claim up £40 a w k w h EMA, plus f cial su t*

Claim up to £40 a week with EMA, plus financial support*

Claim up £40 a w k w h EMA, plus f cial su t*

Get mo t be g a u w h d c s b ef s

Get the most out of being a student with discounts and benefits

A s r special t t ms we be g, f ce, n g su t

Access our specialist teams for wellbeing, finance, and learning support

M Afan College

21 November 2024

16 January 2025

20 March 2025

19 June 2025

M Brecon Beacons College

21 November 2024

16 January 2025

20 March 2025

19 June 2025

SPA - lop a tch, c ge, growth m dset

veSPA - develop a stretch, challenge, and growth mindset

SPA - lop a tch, c ge, growth m dset

Get vol d w h extra-cu icul ac v i ski s compe ns

Get involved with extra-curricular actvities and skills compettions

Get vol d w h extra-cu icul ac v i ski s compe ns

ski s compe ns

Jo e r c i , sp ng, eSp ts aca mi – availab w te r y udy

Join one of our creative, sportng, or eSports academies – available whatever you study

Jo e r c i , sp ng, eSp ts aca mi – availab w te r y udy

A s r C pr e employ t bu au al-w ld employabil y advice, t nships a ic hip o tun i .

Access our Centerprise employment bureau for real-world employability advice, internships and apprenticeship opportunities.

A s r C pr e employ t bu au al-w ld employabil y advice, t nships a ic hip o tun i .

*(eligibility criteria applies)

M Y Gaer

*(eligibility criteria applies)

(Part of Brecon Beacons College Health, Social and Childcare only)

21 November 2024

16 January 2025

20 March 2025

19 June 2025

M Llandarcy Academy of Sport Sport and Public Services

4 February 2025

M Maesteg Construction Centre of Excellence

5 February 2025 (Construction)

M Neath College

20 November 2024

15 January 2025

19 March 2025

18 June 2025

M Pontardawe College

Motor Vehicle and Vehicle

Body Repair only

6 February 2025

M Swansea Construction Centre

5 February 2025 (Construction)

Mark Dacey Chief Executive Officer, NPTC Group of Colleges

Why Choose NPTC

Celebrations are in full swing at NPTC Group of Colleges as the Class of 2024 marks an incredible achievement in their A Levels and vocational qualifications. This is the first year since Covid that grade boundaries and qualifications have returned and reflect prepandemic standards.

With an amazing overall pass rate of 99 percent, students have once again proven their dedication, talent, and determination to shine.

This year’s results are nothing short of remarkable where over half of the students achieved A* - B grades and more than quarter of students achieved the top A*- A grades. Over three quarters of students achieved A* - C grades. Students who follow the Gifted and Talented Excellence (GATE) programme continue to raise the bar , with 84 percent achieving A* - A grades and 100 percent A* - B grades.

Students sitting their Level 3 Vocational qualifications also excelled with 127 distinction grades awarded, of these 39 were at distinction star level, the highest possible vocational grade profile, which is the equivalent to an A* at A Level.

In addition, no fewer than 370 learners successfully achieved the Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate with an outstanding pass rate of 100 percent with 64 percent achieving between an A* and C grade.

With these incredible results, many of the students have secured their place at university while others are ready to embark on exciting career paths armed with the qualifications they need to succeed. With a wide-ranging apprenticeship programme on offer at the College, many students will take up an apprenticeship. The College currently delivers over 2000 apprenticeships every year as part of its successful programme.

Mark Dacey, CEO of NPTC Group of Colleges, expressed his delight:

“Our students and staff deserve the highest praise for their hard work and dedication. These results are excellent with an overall pass rate of 99 percent and A*-A grades on a par with last year’s success. Our Gifted and Talented Excellence (GATE) programme students have outdone themselves, and our vocational students continue to perform at the highest level. The Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate results are equally outstanding, with a 100

percent pass rate. This is a moment of immense pride for everyone involved. We are here to provide everyone with good quality advice, whether you want a university place, a job, an apprenticeship or to continue with your skills development in Further Education. We can answer any questions that you may have to help your decisionmaking. Congratulations to the Class of 2024, your hard work has paid off, and the future is exciting for each and every one of you.”

A Level student Jake Rees had an outstanding A* in Chemistry, A* in Biology, A* in Business and an A in Economics and has secured a place at Bristol University to study Chemistry. Jake said: “I’m excited for the future after College, I had all the support I needed to get into the Uni I wanted to attend!”

Jake

Group of Colleges?

Mila Collins achieved an incredible A* in Dance, an A* in Maths and an A in Further Maths and is going to the University of South Wales to study Drama. Mila really enjoyed her time in College saying: “The lecturers were amazing and I loved being part of the theatre and dance productions.”

Level 3 BTEC Applied Science student Sameer Ali achieved an amazing Triple Distinction Star (D*D*D*) result and is off Swansea University to study Pharmacy.

Lloyd Jenkins is going to Warwick University to study History and Politics after achieving an impressive three A*s in History, Law and Politics. He said: “I’ve made friends for life and the lecturers made the subjects really enjoyable and interesting.”

Taran McNeil received an A* in Maths, an A in Chemistry an A in Music and an A* in his Extended Project, securing a coveted place at the London Conservatoire to study Music. Taran collected his results after coming back from performing clarinet at the Proms for BBC4.

A Level student Alfie Anley achieved an A* in Maths, A Further Maths and an A in Physics, and is off to Cardiff University to study Maths. He said: “The three words I would use to describe my time in College would be challenging, fun and different.”

Riley Davies achieved an incredible triple A result in A Level Law, Psychology and Religious Studies as well as an A in the EVQ qualification and has secured a place in Cardiff University to study Law. Explaining his time in College Riley said: “College was good, the people and lecturers around me made me believe in myself.”

Cian Palmer is now going to Cardiff University to study Law after receiving an A* in Law, an A* in Sociology and a B in Government and Politics.

A Level student Daniel Collins received an A* in Drama, an A in Media and English Language and Literature, and is now going to the University of South Wales to study Film. “I’m really happy as I did not expect these results, College went so quickly – the two years flew by – it was diverse in terms of studying with so much to do, a pleasant experience with my lectures and a welcoming environment.”

Poppy Morgan achieved an A in A Level History, A* in Psychology, and an A in English Language and Literature and has secured a place at Cardiff University to study Psychology. “College was great, I really enjoyed it! I’ve learnt a lot it was such a good life experience; I’ve made lots of new friends and the lecturers were all really helpful and supportive.”

Beth Jones is going to Cardiff University to study Pharmacy after achieving an A* in Sport, an A in Chemistry and a B in Maths.

It was an A in English, an A in Graphics and an A* in Media for Ellie Evans, who is going to Manchester University to study Graphics. Ellie enjoyed College adding: “The lecturers kept the lessons fun.”

Jacob Benson had a Distinction in Childcare, he’s the first boy to receive the Level 3 CCPLD qualification, and now has sights on becoming a teaching assistant. Jacob said: “It was great to come here and get the valuable experience, my sister is now coming in September to do the same course!”

Mila Collins

Jacob Benson

Alfie Anley

Teaching that challenges and develops a growth mindset

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.

We pride ourselves on giving every student the individual support they need to succeed, whether that be progressing on to 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.

VisionEffortSystemspractice Attitude

The VESPA Growth Mindset continues to be a resounding success with our A Level and Level 3 Vocational learners across the College. With over 1,600 students each year enthusiastically engaging in the activities and reflection weeks during their protected tutorial time, the feedback from learners and lecturers remains positive and highly valued.

The learner feedback identifies that the VESPA activities are key in helping them to develop into proactive, resilient and independent thinkers. As a College we are committed to offering more than an education; we want to give our learners techniques and tools to develop a growth mindset and enjoy the journey of discovering new and exciting ways to reach their goals.

Many students believe that they aren’t capable of being high achievers. They see other students around them and think ‘they are cleverer than me’. Our aim at NPTC Group of Colleges is to give students access to the VESPA programme to instil in them the understanding that being a high achiever isn’t biological! Everyone has the ability to make some thoughtful changes to how they approach tasks which will enable them to achieve their aims. The VESPA programme isn’t an academic programme, it is a programme to encourage students to take positive steps to improving their academic results, but it also provides them with new strategies that will help them to be proactive in life beyond education.

The VESPA programme is delivered through our tutorial programme and includes a range of activities to encourage students to be strong independent thinkers. The activities often prompt engaging discussions and debates which the students really enjoy. It gives them the opportunity to develop strategies they may not have previously thought about to help them reach their goals. Once they implement small changes based on the activities, they have the opportunity to reflect on how well a new strategy has helped them.

Measuring Success

Students complete three simple questionnaires throughout the year. They score themselves out of 10 for all five elements of VESPA. On completion of the final questionnaire near the end of their course the students’ results show they score themselves significantly higher in all elements. This reflected their growing confidence and understanding that the strategies they had learned through the VESPA activities were helping them get closer to reaching their goal.

V E SP A Growth Mindset: Success

for our Students

What does VESPA mean?

Vision

How well do you know what you want to achieve?

Effort

How many hours of independent work do you do?

Systems

How do you organise your learning and organise your time?

Practice

Comments from our Students

What kind of work do you do to practise your skills?

Attitude

How do you respond to setbacks?

Comments from our Students

VESPA has been an e ective tool to improve our motivation, organisation and revision. It served as a way for us to explore new study methods and track our progress to becoming more studious students.

Completing the VESPA academy activities and surveys have been experience and made me re ect on how much work and e ort I and whether it was enough the get the grades I wanted. Vespa I was not doing enough work and revision to achieve my target now, work

Completing the VESPA academy activities and surveys have been experience and made me re ect on how much work and e ort I was and whether it was enough the get the grades I wanted. Vespa has I was not doing enough work and revision to achieve my target grades.

The VESPA questionnaires I feel allow me insight into myself personally and on how well I am doing in myself both mentally and academically.

The VESPA questionnaires I feel allow me insight into myself personally and

Award-Winning Facilities

Neath: High quality science labs

Neath: Top-of-the-range engineering equipment

Llandarcy: 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 and Brecon: Exciting Lee Stafford Hairdressing Academy

The CWTCH

Neath College

Ongoing Campus Development at Brecon

The transformation of education in Brecon continues as further provision is on the move to the town centre. In January 2025, Brecon Beacons College will open its doors at Watton Mount and the Coach House to students wishing to study IT, Hairdressing and Applied Therapies.

The buildings will be home to the Lee Stafford Academy of Hairdressing, Barbering and Applied Therapies - the first and only one of its kind in Wales and will host state of the art teaching and learning facilities. It’s 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 experienced hair and barbering staff. It will also provide the perfect location for students who want to gain hands on experience as the salons will be open to the public during certain times in the year.

Successful moves have already been made into the town and include the former Tourist Information Centre which was refurbished and is now the CWTCH. The communitybased venue is well used and proving popular with students and the public with its flexible learning spaces and video conferencing facilities. The Health Social and Childcare students also relocated from Brecon Beacons College, Penlan, to Y Gaer, Brecon’s landmark museum and library last year. The relocation of provision is helping to make education more visible and accessible to the community. Y Gaer also hosts a College run café and the College’s dedicated student library section.

Further moves into the town are on the horizon with work continuing on the former library on Ship Street and former bar and restaurant The Bank. The development forms part of a wider plan to relocate College provision in the town and the re-introduction of hospitality and catering as part of the curriculum in Brecon.

Watton Mount Ship Street Library

The Coach House

Your Application

Your Journey

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!

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.

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 email address ready.

Your username will be the first part of your email 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 email 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, email or social media! Email: 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.

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.

1 2 3 4

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!

Applying for all other courses

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 email address ready.

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

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

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.

Book your interview

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.

Conditional offer

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.

1 2 3 4

Finding your application

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?

You will develop a range of skills which are attractive to employers, colleges and universities including:

Integral skills

M Planning and Organisation

M Critical Thinking

M Problem-Solving

M Creativity and Innovation

Embedded skills

M Literacy

M Numeracy

M Digital Competence

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."

Rebecca Davies Chief Operating Officer at Engineering Education Scheme Wales Ltd

Future Employability Skills

The world of work is evolving quickly, and in 10 years’ time, it is highly likely you’ll be working in a job that doesn’t exist yet! This means you will have to figure out how to prepare for a future job role that’s impossible to predict. At NPTC Group of Colleges we will integrate future employability skills into your learning programme so you can thrive in the future world of work!

The UK Commission for Employment and Skills (UKCES) and the World Economic Forum have identified a set of core and integral skills that workplaces will require:

Integral Skills

Working together

Critical thinking and problem solving

Self-management

Creativity, innovation and initiative

Decision-making

Core Skill Development

In addition to your main qualification, your learning programme will be designed to include the following opportunities:

M Enrolment onto a GCSE resit programme based on progression and your future destination (Maths, English/Welsh)

M Completion of Essential Skills Wales qualifications (Communication, Application of Number, Digital Literacy)

M Upskilling using the Wales Essential Skills Toolkit (WEST).

Integral Skill Development

Depending on your area of study, integral skills will also be developed through the tutorial programme, and the inclusion of the following qualifications:

M The new Level 3 Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales

M Essential Skills Wales qualifications (Essential Employability Skill)

Enterprise and Employability

Enterprise Bureau

Supporting you to start your own business.

Start-up support

Free office space

Building your business know-how

Webinars and online support

Workshops

Grants and funding advice

Employment Bureau

We will support you with:

Work experience placements

CV writing

Application forms

Interviews

Finding a part-time job to fit around your studies

Employer in Residence

Tailored advice from local employers

Students

Build your network

Gain knowledge about local employers

Bespoke career advice from industry professionals

Employers

Introduce your organisation to a diverse student population

Improve links with academic areas and key partners

Effective indirect recruitment method

Improve the quality of student applications

centerprise@nptcgroup.ac.uk

Launch of 'Employer in Residence' Programme

NPTC Group of Colleges has launched its ‘Employer in Residence’ programme at Neath College and is working together with local employers to help students get ‘career ready’.

The programme is the first of its kind in Wales and is already in full flow at the Newtown College which has been running the initiative.

The Employer in Residence programme sits within the College’s Employment Bureau, which is known as Career Ready internally. It is a one-stop-shop for students, supporting them with enterprise and employability skills and providing advice and guidance to support a positive employment or self-employment outcome. Students can visit the bureau for support with career advice, CV and application writing, mock interviews, start-up support and any other career queries they may have.

As part of the programme, employers ‘take over’ the bureau for the day, which gives students the chance to access the same advice and guidance as always, but the support and advice will come directly from the employer, giving students

exclusive access to their potential future employers and the tailored advice that these employers can offer.

Jeremy Miles, former MS, Minister for Education and Welsh Language officially launched the programme and congratulated the College on the new initiative at Neath.

“It’s an exciting development to have local business coming into College and giving advice to young people on how to get a job and how to start a business as well as the network of contacts needed by everyone to be able to take the next steps, so it’s an exciting development.”

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.

The routes are:

q Accountancy

q Care

q Construction

q Engineering

q Management

q Business Administration

q Childcare and Playwork

q Customer Service

q Hospitality and Catering

q Motor Vehicle

q Vehicle Body Repair and Paint

Jobs Growth Wales+

If you are aged 16-19 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 on to your apprenticeship, College, or work journey. To apply you must be:

M Between 16 and 19 years old; and

M Living in Wales; and

M Not in full-time education, employment or training

What will it offer me?

M Receive ongoing training support from a designated contractor

M Evidence to state on career related applications and CVs

M Free training and work experiences

M Build your confidence as you grow your skills and experience

M 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:

M Jobs Growth Wales Plus Engagement

M Jobs Growth Wales Plus Advancement

M Jobs Growth Wales Plus Employment

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.

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 University 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.

Interested?

Please contact the team by emailing us: pathwaystraining@nptcgroup.ac.uk Or call us on: 0330 818 8002

How did our apprentices do?

Level 3 Health and Social Care Apprentice

"I have felt very supported during my time completing an apprenticeship with Pathways Training. I'm looking forward to starting my Level 3 once I have finished my Foundation Apprenticeship, and progressing further within the care sector. The apprenticeship has given me the confidence and the skills to carry out my role and I have since received a promotion to Senior Support Worker"

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 Level 3 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. His teaching style brought the best out in me and I would definitely recommend him and this course to my colleagues."

Rhiannon Hodgson

ALevels ALevels

Academi’r 6ed Dosbarth

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 Advanced Skill Baccalaureate Wales. 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 2023/24

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. These are 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

Estyn reported that in 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 programme, or if you need to improve your GCSE profile for your chosen career.

As a GATE student you will be able to choose to study 3 or 4 A Levels alongside the new Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales Qualification as the Individual Project is highly regarded by universities. The aim is to broaden your horizons beyond your chosen subjects and to promote analytical reasoning and discussion. If you are incredibly well organised and highly driven, you will also have the opportunity to undertake the Extended Project Qualification alongside your 3 or 4 A levels and the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales Qualification. The EPQ will enable you to further enhance your critical thinking, research and evaluation skills. The EPQ also allows you to achieve extra UCAS points.

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.

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.

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.

Careers and What Could I Earn?

Accountant

£20k - £50k

Architect £25k-£90k

Biology Graduate £17k-£21k

Chemistry Graduate £18k-£25k

Crime Scene Investigator £17k-£35k

Criminologist £25k-£28k

Ecologist £19k-£22k

Engineer £20k-£60k

Experienced Doctor £30k

Fire Investigator

£70k

ALevels ALevels

Biological/Life Sciences are degrees based on Chemistry and Biology. As long as you choose these two subjects at A 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 and Dietetics; and degrees based on research, for example, Biochemistry, Biomedical Materials Science and 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.

Food Scientist £20k-£25k

Forensic Scientist £20k

Materials Engineer £20k-£26k

Medical Physicist £25k

Meteorologist £20k

Physics Graduate £17k-£28k

Specialist Doctor £30k-£47k

Trainee Doctor £22k

Veterinary Surgeon £30k

Zoologist £21k - £25k

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.

What A Level combinations will hlp me get there?

Biochemistry

q Biology

q Chemistry

q Mathematics

q Physics

Nursing and Midwifery

q Biology

q Chemistry

q Mathematics

q Psychology

q Sociology

Medicine

q Biology

q Chemistry

q Mathematics

q Physics

q Psychology (non-science)

Engineering

q Physics

q Mathematics

q Further Mathematics

q Computer Science

Pharmacy

q Chemistry

q Biology

q Physics or Mathematics or

q Computer Science

Psychology

q Biology

q Mathematics

q Psychology

q Sociology

Physiotherapy

q Biology

q Chemistry

q Physics or Mathematics

q Psychology

Veterinary

Science

q Biology

q Chemistry

q Physics and/or Mathematics

q Further Mathematics

Accountancy

q Mathematics

q Further Mathematics

q Physics

q Business

Architecture

q Mathematics

q Further Mathematics

q Physics

This

The Senior Maths Challenge Awards

It was another successful season for 15 of our high achieving A Level Maths students who achieved Bronze, Silver or Gold Awards in the Senior Maths Challenge. This is an amazing achievement as 80,000 students from across the UK entered this challenge.

Organised by the UK Maths Trust, it encourages mathematical reasoning, precision of thought, and fluency in using basic mathematical techniques to solve interesting problems.

The problems on the Senior Mathematical Challenge are designed to make students think. Most are accessible, yet still challenge those with more experience.

Following the results of the mathematics challenge the top 6,000 candidates are selected to take part in the Senior Kangaroo challenge. Both gold winners Daniel Hails and Lucas Rajan were invited to take part.

Eight Bronze

Julia Kosyna Milan Matyszewski Kai Miles

Finley Riza Caue Victor Sales Mila Collins

Isaac Fender Morgan Matthews

2 Silver

Alfie Anley Lewis Hier

Glan Afan Grammar School Prize for the Best Science A Levels

2024 – Jake Rees

Biology A*, Business Studies A*, Chemistry A*, Economics A and Extended Project B.

Jake Rees secured a place at Bristol University to study Chemistry.

Jake proved to be an exceptional student during his time at College. His work ethic and level of understanding in all his subjects is unparalleled within the past few years. Jake achieved an impressive A* in all of his A level subjects and topped it off with the highest scoring results from our biology cohort, 200 in the first year and 475 overall.

An absolute pleasure to have in the classroom, Jake would always stretch himself - only being truly satisfied at the end of the session if a deep level of understanding had been attained. Always more than happy to not only participate in lessons, but to support and actively encourage others, with a strong competitive nature for any quizzes and games that might have arisen in that session.

Jake has shown excellent determination and resilience both in chemistry and within our GATE programme. His highly ambitious and determined nature awarded him with an excellent A* grade in chemistry and again the highest score of the cohort.

William Lewis Jones Maths Prize Winner – Alfie Anley

A Level Mathematics A*, A Level Further Mathematics A, A Level Physics B and Welsh Baccalaureate Qualification – B.

Alfie Anley is an exceptional student, he has been top of his class for both Mathematics and Further Mathematics in his first and second year at College. Alfie is a great mathematician who is able to understand a wide variety of topics. He is able to take his knowledge and apply it well to unknown situations such as exams. He has been very successful in his exams achieving near full marks in his A Level Mathematics and a high mark in Further Mathematics. Alfie is off to study Mathematics at Cardiff University.

Jake always demonstrated enthusiasm to help staff out around his timetable, taking his own time to take part in taster sessions with Yr 10 students and showing students around for open evenings. You could always rely on Jake to be a key speaker in class discussions and debates both within chemistry and GATE and was never afraid to voice his opinion on a subject matter or current affair. Jake will certainly be missed, and his happy and charismatic nature will never be forgotten.

Jake Rees

Alfie Anley

Courses

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

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

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

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

6 GCSEs at grade C or above. Minimum GCSE English Language grade B, GCSE Maths grade C and Biology Grade C.

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

6 GCSEs at grade C or above. Higher Tier GCSE Maths Grade A required and Grade A* recommended.

5 GCSEs at grade A-C, including C grades in Double Science and Maths.

6 GCSEs at grade A-C, including C grades in Double Science and Maths.

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.

ALevels ALevels

Business, Travel and tourism

A knowledge of business and business processes can be useful in many different jobs including roles within the administrative and clerical job family, accountancy, banking and finance, retail sales and customer services. It will also be useful if you are thinking about setting up your own business or being self-employed in the future.

Economics bridges the gap between science subjects and humanities and is highly regarded by universities. It combines very well with mathematics and subjects like business, government and politics, history and geography. Economics students typically follow careers in accountancy, finance and business analysis in both the private and public sectors.

Courses

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

6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English. Prior dance experience desirable.

6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English. GCSE English Language, grade B recommended.

6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English.

6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English. GCSE Art and Design essential, minimum C grade.

6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English. GCSE Art or GCSE Graphics recommended.

6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English. GCSE in Media Studies is an advantage although it is not mandatory.

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

6 GCSEs at grade C or above. GCSE Art/ Graphics/D&T required.

6 GCSEs at grade C or above. GCSE Textiles/ Art recommended or satisfactory portfolio of artwork.

6 GCSEs at grade C or above. GCSE Art/ Graphics/D&D/Resistant Materials recommended.

Music Student Set for Conservatoire

A Level student Louis Edwards has secured a place at a prestigious London Conservatoire, he will be heading to Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance to continue his studies and pursue his music dreams

Louis is studied A Level Music, English Language and Sociology. Music has been his passion from a young age, and he wanted to come to Neath College because he had heard so much positive feedback about the music course.

When Louis started studying A Level Music, he found the jump up from GCSE extremely tough, but the support from the lecturers helped him settle in quickly. He feels that the lecturers have helped him develop both musically and personally during his time at college.

Careers and What Could I Earn?

Fine Arts Graduates

Art Director

£26k

£23k-£59k

Product Designer

Film Director

£19k-£46k

£16k-£90k

Graphic Designer

£17k-£41k

When choosing the next steps upon completion of his A Levels, Louis wanted to focus on music. Through speaking to his lecturer, he learnt more about Conservatoires and what they had to offer.

“Before I came to college, I didn’t know too much about Conservatoires and what they were. I just knew you could go to music college, but I didn’t know how. Through speaking to my lecturer and finding out more I decided to apply to a Conservatoire."

Louis knew that lots of people apply for Conservatoires each year and only a handful are successful. After completing the application, with the support of his lecture and the UCAS team at the college. Louis was invited to an audition at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance in London and was offered a place to study at the Conservatoire.

Emsi: www.economicmodeling.com

Videographer

£15k-£33k

Music Producer

£47k

Interior Designer £18k-£75k

Dance Performer

£6-£150 per hour/ average £45k per year

Louis Edwards

The Port Talbot County School Prize for the Best Arts A Levels 2024

Tavian James

A* 3D Design, A* Graphic Communication and A in Psychology.

As a student Tavian has exceptional skill & intelligence beyond his years. He is conscientious, hardworking, and his attention to detail is exquisite. He has an innate sense of self and creative style which comes through in his work, which is of an exceptional standard. Alongside his college work he has also had a part time retail job and has secured two paid commissions for his design work, one for Coast Cafe and one for Laser Zone, both local businesses based in Swansea.

With his results Tavian has secured a place at University of Wales Trinity Saint Davids, Swansea, to study Graphic Design, however his skill level is so high that he is using university as a networking opportunity rather than a way to acquire or improve skills.

What A Level combinations will hlp me get there?

Product Designer

q 3D Design

q Textiles

q Graphic Communication

q Engineering

q Business

Choreographer

q Dance

q Drama and Theatre Studies

q English Language

q English Literature

q Welsh

q Psychology

q Sociology

q Business.

Fine Artist/Illustrator

q Fine Art

q Graphic Communication

q Textiles

q 3D Design

q English

q Digital Technology

Film Director

q Film Studies

q Media Studies

q Graphic Design

q Graphic Communication

q English Language

q Mathematics

q Business

q Fine Art

q Psychology

q Photography

q 3D Design

This is just a guide – there are many possible A Level combinations and careers you could go into.

Dance Education Specialist

q Dance

q English Language

q Welsh

q Psychology

q Physical Education

Camera Operator

q Photography

q Film Studies

q Media Studies

q Fine Art

Interior Designer

q Fine Art

q Graphic Design

q Textiles

q 3D Design

q Business

ALevels ALevels

halth and Social Care

Health and Social Care students will study the rights of service users and the responsibilities of organisations. Students will investigate current health issues in society and plan and implement a health promotion campaign. Students will gain an understanding of the roles of various professionals in order to prepare for their future career.

Courses

A Levels

Health and Social Care

3 6 GCSEs at grade C or above including English Language and Science.

Careers and What Could I Earn?

Children, Adult, Mental

Health Nursing

Social Work

£25k-£48k

£23k-£47k

2 Years Neath

Speech and Language Therapist

£36k-£49k

Occupational Therapy

£21k-£41k

What A Level combinations will hlp me get there?

Nursing and Midwifery

q Health and Social Care

q Biology

q Psychology

q Sociology

q Chemistry

q Mathematics

Social Work

q English Language

q Sociology

q Law

q History

q Government and Politics

q Health and Social Care

Speech Therapist and Languages

q Biology

q Modern Foreign Languages

(e.g. French, Spanish, German)

q English Language

q Welsh

q Psychology

Occupational Therapy

q English Language

q Sociology

q Law

q History

q Government and Politics

q Health and Social Care

ALevels ALevels

Humanities

The study of Humanities includes studying A Levels in English, Law, Ancient History, History, Geography, Government and 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

Student Success

Two A Level students from NPTC Group of Colleges claimed prizes at the recent 2024 DylanEd book review competition, which is organised by Swansea University, as part of the wider International Dylan Thomas Prize celebrations.

Ellie Evans and Gracie George were tasked with writing a 200-word review of one of the Dylan Thomas Prize-shortlisted books for 2024. They chose the poet Mary Jean Chan’s anthology ‘Bright Fear’ and were competing against pupils and students from schools and colleges across Swansea Bay, producing eloquent, thoughtful, touching reviews. The students received their prize at the Dylan Thomas Prize Award Ceremony at the Taliesin Theatre.

Their Lecturer Rhodri Lewis, who encouraged them to enter the competition, was thrilled with the result.

He said: “I was incredibly impressed with the prizewinning reviews that provided an insightful, articulate and meaningful commentary on Chan’s work”.

Careers and What Could I Earn?

Archaeologist £62k

Civil Servant £20k-£40k

Journalist £20k-£55K

What A Level combinations

Civil Servant

q English Language

q History

q Sociology

q Government and Politics

q Law

q Religious Studies

q Geography

q Modern Foreign Languages

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

This is just a guide – there are many possible A Level combinations and careers you could go into.

Lawyer £30k-£110K

Teacher (Secondary) £32k-£70k

Journalist

q English Language

q History

q Sociology

q Government and Politics

q Law

q Religious Studies

q Geography

There are many fields of journalism which range beyond newspapers. You could become a freelance journalist.

Lawyer

q English Language

q English Literature

q Law

q History

q Sociology

q Government and Politics

Politician

q English Language

q English Literature

q History

q Sociology

q Government and Politics

q Law

q Religious Studies

q Geography

Politicians can work at a number of levels locally, nationally and internationally.

Ellie Evans

Gracie George

ALevels ALevels

Computng and Digital Technology

Some of today’s most in demand jobs – web designers, software programmers, digital content creators, IT security experts, data analysts – hardly existed 20 years ago. Studying a technology based subject will enable you to pursue some of the most rewarding and lucrative careers available. An A Level in Computer Science gives you the opportunity to progress to a degree in a computing discipline or a degree where computing related skills and knowledge are advantageous. The Digital Technology A Level can be seen as an excellent subject to take alongside many other complementary subjects such as Business, Economics, Maths, Sciences and Art.

Courses

6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including Maths (at grade B or above) and English Language (at grade C or above).

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

Careers and What Could I Earn?

Web Designer

£18k-£40k

Experienced Freelance Designer

£50-£75 per hour

Data Analyst

£35k-£55k

Emsi: www.economicmodeling.com

Big Data Engineer £75k

UK Average Salary

Information Systems Security Manager £30k-£70k

UK Average Salary

Languages

ALevels ALevels

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.

Courses

6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English. GCSE English Language grade B is required. GCSE French grade C is desirable.

6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English. GCSE English Language grade B is required. GCSE German grade C is desirable.

6 GCSEs at grade C or above. Grade B in GCSE Welsh/French/German highly recommended. No previous knowledge of Spanish at GCSE is required.

6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including Welsh 2nd Language.

Careers and What Could I Earn?

Translator £25K

Interpreter up to £36 per hour

Caitlin Dilley Secures

Prestigious Pharmaceutical Apprenticeship in Germany

Neath College A Level student Caitlin Dilley has been accepted on a ‘Pharmazeutisch-technische Assistenz’ (Pharmaceutical Technical Assistant Apprenticeship) course at the BS-06 Berufliche Schule in Hamburg. Caitlin, who studies A Level German, Biology and Chemistry at Neath College had to complete a challenging application form in German to be accepted onto the course at the vocational college. She was then interviewed online in the target language leading to her sitting a language proficiency exam at B2 Level, which she passed with nearly perfect marks.

Caitlin said:

“I have recently been offered a place on an apprenticeship course in Hamburg, Germany. The apprenticeship is for the role of a Pharmaceutical Technical Assistant and will allow me active involvement, including dealing with patients, whilst simultaneously studying pharmaceuticals.

The AS /A2 German course at Neath College helped me to get my grounding in the language which I had never studied before, and my Biology and Chemistry lessons founded a love for the field. I hope to gain knowledge and experience through this course and aspire to start university in Germany as my next step.”

What A Level combinations will hlp me get there?

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.

Speech Therapy

q Biology

q Modern Foreign Language

(e.g. French, Spanish, German)

q English Language

q Welsh

q Psychology

This is just a guide – there are many possible A Level combinations and careers you could go into.

Interpreter

q English Language

q Modern Foreign Languages

(e.g. French, Spanish, German)

q History

q Law

q Welsh

q Government and Politics

Caitlin Dilley

ALevels ALevels

Physical Education

A career in the sports industry boasts a diverse range of options, from teaching and coaching, sport business, and sport science to media health and fitness. The Physical Education A Level goes into significantly more detail around the biomechanics of movement, psychological aspects, skill acquisition and the physiology of sport.

Courses

6 GCSEs at grade C or above. Strong practical skills in one sport and coaching experience required. 2 Years Neath

Careers and What Could I Earn?

PE Teacher (Secondary)

£30k per year average

Strength and Conditioning Coach

£17k-£45K

Sport Science If you work in high-profile sport science, your salary can exceed £60k and may reach up to £100k*

Sport Development Officer

£18k-£40k

What A Level combinations will hlp me get there?

PE Teacher

Vocational

art, design and Creative MEdia

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.

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 then the creative industries have added about 400,000 new UK jobs.

When creative jobs that are outside the creative industries are also added in – to calculate the total of the UK's creative

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, Design and Creative Media 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 on to the Foundation Year in Art and Design course at Afan College, a prerequisite qualification for many universities.

Creative Director

Senior

Graphic Designer

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!

Career opportunities

q Architects

q Arts Heritage

q Craftsperson

q Designer

q Director

q Film Producer

q Fine Artist

q Graphic Designer

q Photographer

Freelance

£500 to £700+ per day

Freelance

£200 to £400 per day

q Print Maker

q Product Designer

q Prop and Set Designer

q Spatial, Interior and Landscape Designer

q Tattoo Artist

q Teacher and Educator

q Videographer

q Web Designer.

Employed

£100k to £160k+

Employed

£35k to 55k

Be creative with a career in art, design and mEdia

Beau Broome achieved a distinction in her UAL Art and Design Production for Theatre and Film course. She went through the creative apprenticeship application process facilitated through the college and has successfully secured an apprenticeship and will be working with Hijinx Theatre Company at the Millenium Centre in Cardiff.

Courses

C or above, including English. GCSE in Media Studies is an advantage although it is not mandatory.

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

Vocational

Automotve and vehicle Body repair

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 grew 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 prestigious state-of-the-art tools sponsored and promoted by the likes of DeVilbiss tools.

The motor vehicle department 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.

Open Evenings

February 2025 6

Inspiring Skills Competition Success

Keeping up the tradition of skills competition success, motor vehicle once again walked away with a bronze medal for Kieran Rees in the Vehicle Refinishing category.

Skills Competition Wales through Inspiring skills aims to raise the profile of skills in Wales and offers students, trainees and apprentices a chance to challenge, benchmark and raise their skills by taking part in local vocational skills competitions across a range of sectors.

Courses

As well as boosting skills and confidence, competitors who impress under the pressure of a national final could be in with the chance of representing the UK in a World Skills Final.

Automotive Engineer

in senior roles (Prospects.ac.uk)

Kieran Rees

Vocational

AppliEd therapies including Beauty therapy 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. The theatrical/special effects 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.

Average annual earnings

Beauty Therapist £21k in salon

Makeup Artist £40 per hour (freelance)

Beauty Student Shortlisted for Top Award.

Former Applied Therapies student Lucy Lewis has been recognised for her incredible talents by being shortlisted for the prestigious VTCT Excellence Awards 2023.

With over 500 inspiring nominations from across the UK, the awards were judged by a host of esteemed judges spanning VTCT, iTEC and Skillsfirst sectors.

The Student of the Year category sponsored by Wella recognises an exceptional student for their work, either

Courses

within their programme of study or in relation to a particular project related to their studies. This may include high performance or achievement rates, innovative ways of presenting work, going the extra mile, conducting voluntary work alongside their studies, or using what they've learned during their qualification to create an opportunity for themselves to strengthen their record of achievement.

Lucy has already experienced success after winning a gold medal in the Inspiring Skills Finals 2020 for Beauty Therapy, and a bronze medal for competing in the Beauty Therapy Practitioner category in 2021 for WorldSkills.

Lucy Lewis

Vocational

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.

Courses

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.

Inspiring Skills Competition Success

Forensic Science had a brilliant night for the second year in a row at the prestigious Inspiring Skills Wales Awards, with two Golds: Josh Punchard in the Forensic Science competition and Samuel Morgan in the Laboratory Technician competition, and a Silver for Jackson Cole in the same category.

Average annual earnings

Biological Scientists and Biochemist

£45k

Crime Scene Investigator

Criminologist £25k-£28k

£17k-£35k

Fire Investigator £70k

Forensic Scientist £20k

Radiographer £40k

Paramedic £36k

Samuel Morgan Jackson Cole

Vocational

Business, tourism and Management

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

The tourism sector also offers excellent employment opportunities globally, nationally and locally, with Deloitte reporting tourism to be the fastest growing sector in the UK. It accounts for more than 10% of all jobs in Wales. The range of opportunities in tourism are also extensive, ranging from event management, tour operators, cabin crew and even tourism marketing.

The School of Business, Tourism and Management reflects these successful and dynamic sectors, with staff bringing a balance of academic excellence and industry expertise to ensure a stimulating and positive learning experience.

What will I do?

Those studying Business will be exposed to opportunities to meet with experts in various fields, through workshops and visits, and will benefit from first-class links with local businesses, ensuring a deep understanding of how companies are managed and run.

Topic areas are diverse, with practical opportunities to develop and learn key skills in marketing, finance, HR, global

Average annual earnings

Accountant

£62k

Marketing Manager

£50k

industry and economics, as well as fostering the aspirations of the modern entrepreneur.

Those interested in tourism will learn about this dynamic and ever-changing sector through a range of topic areas and have the chance to meet with various experts to identify the opportunities available when entering this exciting industry.

Students consider both domestic and overseas travel, and are instrumental in planning and supporting a range of tourism events and visits throughout their studies.

Career opportunities

q Accounting

q Business administration

q Cabin crew

q Cruise ship

q Event managing

q Forensic accounting

q Hotel management

q Human resources

q Marketing

q Overseas repping

q Rural tourism

q Stockbroker

q Tourism management and development

q Travel agency work

q Visitor attractions managing

q Wedding planning.

Tour Operator

Event Planner

£24k

£29k

years and over. Successful interview with course tutor. Designed as a pathway to HE for those without the skills, experience, or confidence to move straight into HE.

at grade C or above, including English and Maths. Grade B English Language desirable.

(online delivery available outside location)

motvatEd...

Brecon Jazz shines through the rain

NPTC group of Colleges and Brecon Jazz Festival held another successful Jazz Taster Day and didn’t let the weather dampen their spirits as even more students took part this year.

For the third year running, the Taster Day was a success and as usual, Neath College’s Jazz Ensemble provided the live music for the day, but this time with the addition of hair and make-up from Brecon’s hair and beauty students. Students from Newtown College designed posters to promote the day, as part of their coursework.

Tourism students visit London Heathrow Training Academy

Level 2 Cabin Crew and Level 3 Tourism students have been trained to deliver exceptional customer service in the sky! As part of their studies, students have visited Heathrow Airport to take part in a training exercise, learning alongside BS Staff and taking part in practical SEP scenarios, such as safety demonstrations, managing doors, exits, fire and smoke and developing survival techniques. Students particularly enjoy descending the Slide Raft.

Bhaigid Ahmed, foundation art and design student from Newtown College, created a variety of posters to promote the day using his interpretation of Jazz. He said: “It was great to experience the rich culture of Welsh jazz, the posters were inspired by 50’s and 60’s jazz”

The tutors said: “It’s given the students the rare opportunity to experience what it would be like to do hair and makeup for an event like a wedding, which they wouldn’t normally get to experience so early on.”

Competition Winners

Business and Accounting students take part in the Wales and World Skills Competition every year, winning many medals.

Three accountancy students Toni Borgia, Elena Ciota and Rebecca Smith took part in the World Skills Competition in Manchester to battle for the top spot in the UK, the winners travelling to the “Skills Olympics” in Shanghai. They didn’t quite make Shanghai, but the trio did win Silver, beating nearly 440 other students from all around the UK.

Vocational

Civil engineering and 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 and 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.

Courses

BTEC Extended Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment (Civil Engineering/Construction Management)

Average annual earnings

Trainees & Graduate Apprentices

£18k-£28k

Graduate Civil Engineer

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 engineering 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.

Many students progress on to university to further their studies at degree level.

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).

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.

£23k-£28k

Chartered Civil Engineer (ICE) £50k

2 Years Neath

Civil Engineer (ICE) Fellow £81k

Project Manager £45k-£60k

Quantity Surveyor

Architect

£35k-£60k

£45k-£80k

Vocational

Computng 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 Oculus 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 in 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.

C or

including Maths (at grade B or above) and English Language (at grade C or

at C or

Games Design: Development in Creative and Digital Industries

We are delighted to have launched the first Level 2 Games Design Course at our Brecon and Newtown Colleges in 2024/2025. The Gaming and Creative Industries are dynamic and fast moving, and we recognise the growth of the Gaming Industry by offering our students the opportunity to gain qualifications in this area, which will help them to develop the skills and knowledge needed to access careers in this sector.

The aim of this course is to help students to develop their understanding of creative and digital technologies. The course includes units which enable students to explore and research the Computer Games Industry, the art of creating 2D and 3D Art for computer games and how to effectively use 2D and 3D Games Engines. Students

Average annual earnings

Computer Programmer 30k

IT Technician £30k

Business Analyst £49k

Software Engineer £32k

Cyber Security Analyst

£31k

Systems Architect £50k

Computer / Network Support

Technician £19k

will build their skills throughout the year and have the opportunity to create their own game during their final major project.

Since the successful introduction of the Level 2 course in Brecon and Newtown last year, our students are now progressing to Level 3 Games Design: Development in Creative and Digital Industries where they will further hone their skills and prepare to take the next steps into Higher Education, Apprenticeships or employment within the Gaming Industry; the 3rd largest industry across the globe.

The Level 2 Games Design course is now also available to students at Neath College, and we look forward to working with more enthusiastic young people who are ready to use innovation and creativity to make a difference in the Gaming Industry.

Computer Operator £23k

System Administrator,

Computer / Network £26k

Technical Support Specialist £24k

Cyber Security Analyst £31k

Network Security Engineer £36k

Student Success

It was a fantastic night for the School of Computing & Digital Technology at the annual Inspiring Skills Awards with Wolfram Northmore-Thomas taking Gold in the Inclusive Skills: IT Software Solutions for Business competition, while fellow student Sofia Plummer took Bronze. In the same category. Willow Williams also took a Bronze in Inclusive Skills: IT Software Solutions for Business.

Wolfram was further recognised as the ‘best in their region’ for West Wales, meaning he received the highest score of all the competitions held in his geographical area.

As well as boosting skills and confidence, competitors who impress under the pressure of a national final could be in with the chance of representing the UK in a World Skills Final.

NPTC Group of Colleges welcomed Welsh gaming stars John Jackson AKA Slayer and Lois Samuel AKA Kitsch to formally 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 played individually or as 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 26 of January 2022, with the NPTC Crimson Ravens team playing Overwatch and the NPTC Magic Missiles playing Rocket league.

Wolfram Northmore-Thomas

Sofia Plummer

Vocational

Construction and the Built environment

Building the Future

A new suite of qualifications have been 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 your 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.

Be practcal with a career in plastering, Paintng, bricklaying and carpentry

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.

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.

Brickwork student hailed Welsh champion

NPTC Group of Colleges’ brickwork apprentice has won a prestigious title and now become the best bricklayer in the UK. James Luc Martin, a Level 3 Brickwork apprentice from Neath College, became the Senior Welsh Champion at The Guild of Bricklayers Welsh Section and has since gone on to take the top spot at the Guild of Bricklayers National Senior Final becoming the best in Britain.

James is in the third year of his apprenticeship with local business Watts Brickwork but attends college through

Average annual earnings

Bricklayer

£52k

Carpenter and Joiner

Plasterer

£48k

Wall and Floor Tilers

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.

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.

our work-based learning team, Pathways Training. James was put to the test with a complex Level 3 tasks but beat entrants from across the UK with his high level of precision and technique.

The Guild of Bricklayers was founded in 1932 to promote and maintain the highest standards of craftsmanship in brickwork. Each year the Guild organises regional brickwork competitions at Senior, Junior and Schools levels with a National Final, it’s a highlight of the calendar and a sought-after accolade.

£50k

£48k

Site Manager

£60k

Project Manager

Civil Engineer

£70k

James Luc Martin

Future Carpenter from Neath became Screwfix Trade Apprentice Finalist

Lewis George, an aspiring carpenter from Neath College, secured a place in the final of the coveted Screwfix Trade Apprentice award.

From over 1,800 initial applications from across the UK, only ten apprentices made the grade with one apprentice receiving a career-boosting trade bundle worth £10,000. Currently studying Level 3 Site Carpentry at Swansea Construction Centre, Lewis was shortlisted for demonstrating his passion, dedication and ambition for

Courses

Career-Focused Courses

Gateway to Construction (Pre-Multi Trade Level 1)

Construction Skills (Multi Trade Level 1)

Carpentry and Joinery / Roofing

Brickwork / Construction

Civils-Groundworks

his chosen trade, which shone through during the semifinals. Lewis works with sustainability in mind and plans to use his platform to promote more environmentally friendly practices in carpentry, such as sourcing materials from sustainable suppliers and reusing or recycling excess or waste materials.

“If you love your job, you’ll never work a day in your life – and that’s truly how I feel about being a carpenter."

The Screwfix Trade Apprentice champion receives a bundle of tools, tech and training alongside the coveted Screwfix Trade Apprentice title, everything an apprentice needs to excel within their chosen career.

AVAILABLE TRADE ROUTES:

Brecon/Maesteg Neath/Swansea

Neath

Brecon / Swansea

Neath/Brecon Maesteg

Brickwork / Plastering Swansea

Plastering / Construction

Civils-Groundworks Neath

Painting and Decorating/ Wall and Floor Tiling Neath

BTEC

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

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.

Vocational

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.

Career opportunities

q Actor

q Arts administrator

q Choreographer

q Dancer

q Music - or drama - therapist

q Musical theatre performer

q Musician

q Pilates/Yoga instructor

q Screenwriter

q Teacher

q Theatre director.

Average annual earnings

Choreographer

Screenwriter

Musician

£50k+

£30k+

£35k+

Dancer

Teacher

£37k+

£50k+

Theatre Director

£60k+

Courses

Grass Roots Theatre Company OCR Diploma in Performing Arts

Impact Theatre Company Extended Diploma in Performing Arts with WBQ 3

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. 3

BTEC Technical Diploma in Music 2

6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English. Prior dance experience desirable.

6 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English. GCSE English Language, grade B recommended. 2 Years Neath

6 GCSEs at grade C or above. Performance on instrument or voice to a min standard of grade 5/working towards grade 5 theory. Ability to read music notation is essential.

No formal qualifications required. Dance experience is desired.

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

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.

Year Neath

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

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 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. 1 Year Neath

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.

2 Years Neath

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

Neath College has long established its reputation for offering sector-leading dance education and training opportunities for young people, with Neath College’s dance department hosting a national audition for students who hope to win a company place to dance with National Youth Dance Wales 2024!

Working with NYDW for over twenty years, Neath College was delighted to again welcome the company dance ambassadors, led by company producer Jamie Jenkins, who has been scouting for talent across Wales, in the hope of building a company to represent Wales’s youth dance potential this summer!

A creative approach to learning is at the centre of the dance experiences on offer at Neath College, coordinated by the Subject Leader for Dance, Craig Coombs, who commented;

“Dance at Neath College offers young dancers the opportunity to develop their talent and pave out an informed career in dance, beyond their studies. The dedication of the dance lecturers means that the students are given the best of what is on offer, not only preparing them for their dance assessments, but also for places in youth dance companies, universities, and vocational training schools.’’

Neath College Dance is leading the way for these young dancers. Some students have already been auditioning to further their dance education at university and have received offers from the Bristol Institute of Performing Arts, Roehampton University, Performers College and London Contemporary Dance School. In previous years, the College’s dance students have become accustomed to success, having multiple offers from Trinity Laban, The Northern School of Contemporary Dance, London Studio Centre, The Urdang Academy and National Youth Dance Wales.

Be expressive with a career in dance, theatre and music

Vocational

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?

Advanced Manufacturing

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 such as emerging technologies and green skills. Mechanical/maintenance engineering 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. 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

Inspiring Skills Competition Success

NPTC Group of Colleges was once again chosen to host the prestigious Inspiring Skills Awards 2024.

Renewable Energy team TATA Tide made up of Engineering students Charlie Humphrey, Jay Morris, Jessica Cook and Will Miller took the top spot by winning gold in their category.

Average annual earnings

Junior Engineer/Graduate

£30k

Senior Engineer/Manager £47k

Director or above £72k

Welder £16k - £31k

UK Engineering sectors

Automotive

£48k

Chemicals and Pharma/ Medical

£50k

Defence and Security/ Marine £47k

Energy/Renewables/ Nuclear £52k

Food and Drink/Consumer Goods

£48k

Oil and Gas £53k

Charlie Humphrey, Jay Morris, Jessica Cook and Will Miller

Vocational

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 and 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

A Star on the Horizon

Meet 16-year-old Torra Durman, a Gateway Creative Level 1 student at Neath College who is well on their way to receiving an incredible A* GCSE in their English resit just one year after leaving home education.

Torra’s experience of mainstream secondary school wasn’t a positive one and as such meant the only environment, they felt comfortable learning was at home, but that all changed when Torra walked through the doors of Neath College.

”GCSEs didn’t go well for me, but the main reason for joining College was that I knew I needed to be reintroduced into society. The environment here is so much more relaxed and supportive than in my Secondary school. I felt the pressure that had been on my shoulders had been lifted, I’ve been encouraged to socialise more and prioritise my mental health.’

”The support I received in relation to my identity and disability at the College has been incredible and so positive, and now I really feel like I can explain my experience without judgement.”

”These reasons have made me enjoy learning again and I’ve been able to excel in my GSCE resits receiving an A* in my mock exam – something I didn’t feel was ever possible. It’s truly been an environment of rehabilitation for me!’’

Courses

Full-time Courses

Life SkillsPathways 1 & 2

Pathways 3

Gateway to Work Pathways 4

Gateway to Further Education

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

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.

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, media and IT and health and social care.

Gateway Level 1 in Health and Social Care

Gateway Level 1 Creative Arts

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.

Afan/ Neath/ Brecon

Year Neath/ Brecon

Afan/ Brecon/ Neath

Year Afan

Year Neath

Torra Durman

Vocational

Gardening and Hortculture

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

q Nursery work

q Garden design

q Plant production

q Landscaping

q Science

q Tree surgeon

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

q Retail garden centres

q Plant propagation

q Groundsmanship

q Organics

q Education

q Self-employment.

Be nurturing with a career in hortculture

Meet our WorldSkills UK finalist

Joshua Miles made the Welsh squad and took on the rest of the UK to compete in the Foundation Skills: Horticulture final in November 2023. Joshua came away with the Bronze medal. He had already won a Bronze at the Inspiring Skills Excellence in Wales competition earlier that year. Josh was part of a 112-strong Welsh team of students and apprentices from welsh colleges, making up a quarter of the field, who battled it out for the top spot.

Krystal Moorman who won a Bronze in the Inspiring Skills Excellence in Wales 2024 said:

“I think that this is the best thing I have ever won and I am very excited about winning the bronze medal”.

Courses

We welcome applications from mature students

Joshua Miles

Krystal Moorman

hairdressing Vocational

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!

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.

Staff Success

The National Hairdressing Competition Awards for Lee Stafford Education recognises staff and students from across all the Lee Stafford Education Academies getting recognised for their hard work and dedication.

Pamela O’Brien from Afan College won the College Trainer of the Year award. Pamela won this award beating the trainers for all the Lee Stafford Education Academies across the UK. She was selected and nominated for this award by Lee Stafford himself and judges Michael Saunders and Tony Wood who visit all the Lee Stafford Education colleges throughout the year assessing trainers.

Pamela was also one of the first trainers to achieve the Master Trainer Diploma, also known as the ‘Golden Scissors’, for hitting the ‘Big 10’ outcomes in all Level 2 and Level 3 recipes. The Golden Scissors are only awarded when the trainer can replicate the recipes as well as Lee Stafford himself.

Pam said “In 2019, our collaboration with Lee Stafford Education was a resounding success. We underwent rigorous training, wholeheartedly embracing their ethos and methodologies. Thanks to the unwavering support of Michael Saunders, our Lee Stafford Trainer, our team adeptly executes the techniques taught. I feel I am the first of many of the hairdressing team from NPTC Group of Colleges who will achieve this award.

"What students can expect from a lee stafford Academy are quality recipes that are easy and incredibly effectve, that you can go out into the big wide world and get an amazing job with."

Lee Stafford

Courses

Average annual earnings

Salon Owner up to £100k Senior Stylist £30k - emsi Wedding Hairdresser

£34 - £50 per person (not including trials)

Barbering A pro barber can earn as much as £1,000 a week

Vocational

Y Gaer

halth, 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.

Brecon Beacons College moves to Y Gaer

Health Social and Childcare have moved from Brecon Beacons College to Y Gaer, Brecon’s landmark museum and library, which has opened its doors to prospective care workers of the future. All Health, Social and Childcare lessons have now been relocated from Brecon Beacons College to Y Gaer as a way of making education more visible and accessible to the community.

With 21st-century learning spaces, students of all ages have already been enjoying the boosts to learning opportunities awarded by a new facility, such as reading groups for local nurseries in the library area. Included in the new facilities

for the learners are children’s reading areas, interactive whiteboards, and open-plan classrooms featuring beautiful views and plenty of natural light.

Kelly Sherwood, Head of Health, Social and Childcare at NPTC Group of Colleges, is happy learners are starting afresh in Y Gaer, commenting: “We are delighted as a department to offer students the opportunity to study at this amazing new venue. We are hoping to engage with the town and local employers to enhance the experience for all.”

Councillor David Selby, Portfolio Holder for a More Prosperous Powys, commented: “Powys County Council welcomes Brecon Beacons College into Y Gaer. Courses on health, social and childcare are particularly welcomed, and we plan to explore further how we can work collaboratively for the benefit of Brecon and the surrounding communities. We are excited to see the college run café in operation, providing an additional attraction to all visitors to Y Gaer.”

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 worker. Many progress on to the many Health, Social and Childcare degree programmes at the College before entering employment.

Be nurturing with a career in care, halth and therapy

Inspiring Skills Competition Success

The School of Health, Social and Childcare received triple success at the prestigious Inspiring Skills Awards 2024 with Golds in the Health and Social Care competition for Level 3 Health and Social Care students Jodie Riddell and Brooke Williams-Jones, plus a Silver in the same competition for Mollie Learoyd-Cross.

Average annual earnings

Children, Adult, Mental Health

Nursing

£30k+

Social Work

£23k - £47k

Speech and Language Therapist

£24k - £49k

Occupational Therapy

£21k - £41k

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

Brooke Williams-Jones

Jodie Riddell

Mollie Learoyd-Cross

Vocational

Plumbing, Electrical and renewable energies

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 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 knowledge and skills which will equip them for a successful career in the construction industry.

What will I do?

Tuition is carried out by industry 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:

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.

Courses

Progression

Average annual earnings

Plumber

£19k - £37k

Solar Panel Installer

Electrician

£16k - £38k

£25k - £30k Gas Engineer

£40k - £50k

Be practcal with a career in plumbing, electrical and solar energy

Vocational

Professional Cookery, Culinary arts, Hospitality, restaurant and Bakery

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.

Average annual earnings

Commis Chef

£12k - £16k

Sous Chef up to £30k

Head Chef £25k - £55k

Baker £14k - £23k (£37k in London)

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

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.

Event Manager

£33k - £40k+

Fine Dining Restaurant

Manager £22k - £40k

Courses

Public Services

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, 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 students to engage in a wide range of public services activities alongside their Public Services course. Educational visits and

Vocational

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.

Career opportunities

q Army

q Coastguard

q Emergency services

q Fire service

q Navy

q Police officer

q Paramedic

q RAF.

Average annual earnings

Air Ambulance Officer

Army Officer

Firefighter

£36k

£20k

£21k - £36k

Police Officer

£25k (Starting Salary)

Paramedic £36k

Police Dog Handler

£16k - £25k

Student Success

Emilie 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

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.

Emilie 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 Award.

Emilie 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

Lecturers 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.

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.

Five members of the BTEC Level 3 Sport (Performance and 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 netball 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 extracurricular activities and will thrive in her higher education journey.”

Katelyn Kneath is 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

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

Average annual earnings

Strength and Conditioning Coach

£17k

Secondary School PE Teacher

£25k+

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

£24-43k

Vocational

Sport therapies

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.

Courses

16-18: a minimum of 5 GSCEs at grades C or above (or equivalent). Mature learners: interview prior to enrolment. 1 Year Afan

haling with a career in sport, therapy and fitness

Sports Massage Students Get Hands On

This term, our Sports Massage students had the pleasure of working with the Welsh Rugby League team.

The Welsh team were provided with post-event sports massage to facilitate recovery from training and to prepare for their forthcoming matches by our Level 3 and 4 Sports Massage students at Afan College.

The session was organised by tutor, Wayne RobsonBrown, in tandem with the first team coach of the Welsh squad.

The students used multiple techniques, including effleurage, petrissage and tapotement. These were performed on a range of muscles, covering the legs, back, neck and shoulders. Passive stretching of certain muscle groups, such as the hamstring muscles, was also incorporated to restore normal range of movement of joints pre-exercise.

Sessions like these provide students with the opportunity to transfer the skills and techniques they have learnt in the classroom into real-world experience with professional athletes. Working with an international rugby team supports the development of the sports massage techniques employed by the students, improving their use in a real-life work setting.

Average annual earnings

Employed Sport Massage Therapist £25k

Freelance Sport Massage Therapist £30k

Sports Therapist £30+ an hour

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: children looked after and care experienced young people, carers and young adult carers, veterans of the armed forces and children of serving families, students with refugee status.

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

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.

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

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

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

inspired By

Music

Sportng Success

RUGBY

q Welsh Schools’ Cup Winners (8 times)

q Welsh College Cup Winners (19 times)

q British Colleges’ Cup Winners

q Rosslyn Park 7s’ Winners

q College Super 15s’ Winners

International Students

J Dan Baker

J Adam Beard

J Ashley Beck

J Kiera Bevan

J Gwen Crabb

J Leigh Davies

J Paul James

J Spencer John

NETBALL

J Adam Jones

J Duncan Jones

J Gwyn Jones

J Kelsey Jones

J James Hook

J Joe Hawkins

J James King

J Kerin Lake

q Welsh Colleges’ League Champions

q Finalists at the British Knock-out Cup

International Students

J Amanda Cooper J Helen Jones

J Nicola James J Chelsea Lewis

FOOTBALL

J Dan Lydiate

J Craig Mitchell

J Darren Morris

J Lowri Norkett

J Lloyd Ashley

J Arwel

Thomas

J Justin Tipuric

J Eli Walker

q Welsh League Champions q Welsh 5-a-side Champions

q Welsh 5-a-side Runner-up

International Students

J Daniel James J Ben Davies J Joe Allen

J Connor Roberts J Joe Rodon J Ben Cabango

OLYMPICS

J Dan Jervis (Swimming)

PARALYMPICS

J Rob Davies (Table Tennis)

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.”

Rachel Kehoe, Head of Creative Arts and Digital Industries

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 27-year-old swimmer from Resolven finished fifth in the final of the 1500-meter freestyle at the delayed Summer 2021 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 2021 Olympics a reality.

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.

Daniel represented Team GB at the Paris Olympics in 2024.

“I’ve had my first Team GB experience now. I trust that I’m going to be on that podium. I deserve it, I’ll work for it, and I’ll be there.”

KEIRA BEVAN

Bristol Bears and Wales

Keira made history in 2022 when she signed a professional contract with the Welsh Rugby Union. She was one of twelve Welsh international rugby players who became the first women to be offered full-time professional contracts in Wales.

Keira studied at Llandarcy Academy of Sport, completing a Level 3 Personal Trainer Apprenticeship, and is now a fully qualified Personal Trainer.

Keira made her debut for Wales against England in 2015 and has represented her country 53 times. She played rugby at junior level for Pontarddulais, before rediscovering the sport when she joined college in 2014. From here, she was selected for the Ospreys 7s set-up and went on to represent Wales 7s at both U18 and senior level.

Keira was part of the Wales squad that travelled to New Zealand for the World Cup, playing an integral part in the tournament. The scrum-half helped Wales beat Scotland in the opening game, slotting the winning penalty with the last kick of the game. Wales bowed out of the tournament in the quarter-finals against eventual winners New Zealand.

Keira is currently the Welsh captain and plays her club rugby on the opposite side of the Severn Bridge with Bristol Bears, where she is joined by a handful of fellow Welsh internationals.

Daniel Jervis Keira Bevan

JOE HAWKINS

Exeter Chiefs and Wales

Joe Hawkins from Ystalyfera studied for a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport (Performance and Excellence) at Llandarcy Academy of Sport. Whilst completing his studies, Joe featured regularly for the College First XV, was a member of the Ospreys Academy setup and was capped for Wales at U18 and U19 level.

At the age of 17 Joe was selected to represent Wales U20s. He featured in two U20 Six Nations campaigns, captaining the side against France in 2022. In the summer of that year, Joe was named as Wales captain for the U20 Summer Series. He converted a late penalty in the match against Italy to clinch the win which ultimately saw Wales reach the final of the tournament where they lost to South Africa.

After graduating from the academy, Joe made his regional rugby debut with the Ospreys at the age of 18 and went on to make 21 appearances at his home region.

Joe was named in the Wales senior squad for the 2022 Autumn series. On 26 November 2022, Joe made his Wales debut, starting against Australia at inside centre.

Returning coach Warren Gatland named Joe in his squad for the 2023 Six Nations Championship, where he partnered George North in the midfield for the first two matches. Joe started against England in the third match, with a new centre partner of Mason Grady, reforming their partnership from U20 level only a year prior.

In 2023 Joe announced that he would be joining Exeter Rugby in the English Premiership for the 2023/2024 season.

Dan Lydiate

DAN LYDIATE

Ospreys, Wales, British & Irish Lions

Sports Alumni Dan Lydiate is a former Coleg Powys BTEC Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science student. A local farmer’s son from Abbey Cwm Hir, Llandrindod Wells, he went on to study a Foundation Degree in Strength and Conditioning at Brecon Beacons College.

A talented flanker, he then moved on to a professional rugby career signing up for the Newport Dragons where, in his first year, he was capped with Wales Under 20s.

Dan was named in the Wales National squad for the November 2009 international series.

He made his first test match start as flanker on 28 November 2009, after which he was named in the Wales squad for the 2010 Six Nations Championship. He played every match of Wales’ 2011 Six Nations Championship campaign as well as all four warm-up matches. In August 2011, he was named in the Wales squad for the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand. He also later made up the squad of the 2015 World Cup in England. He played in Wales’ opening two games against South Africa and Samoa, as well as playing a key role in Wales’ quarter-final win over Ireland.

In the 2012 Six Nations Championship, he received the Player of the Tournament award after featuring in every game bar the opener against Ireland and receiving Man of the Match awards. It was in this very year that he was also nominated for the Welsh Sports Personality of the Year award.

In April 2013, he was named in the squad for the 2013 British and Irish Lions tour to Australia. He left Newport Gwent Dragons at the end of the 2012/13 season to join the club Racing Métro 92 before becoming an Osprey in 2014, whose training ground is, in fact, the Colleges’ Llandarcy Academy of Sport,

Talking about his time at the College, Dan said: “Without the College’s strength and conditioning programme, I would not have been able to achieve these levels. It was the difference, and is as good as any system in professional rugby.’’

Joe Hawkins

#CaruCymraeg

Welsh at the 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

NPTC 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 have courses that cover many subjects, some of which are full-time and some are part-time.

We offer courses, at all levels, across a range of subjects, including

Business & Management Care & Wellbeing

Childcare

Computing

Construction

Engineering

Hospitality

Music

Public Services

Sport

Substance Misuse

Teaching

Travel, Tourism & Events

For more detailed information on our courses, please visit our website: www.nptcgroup.ac.uk