We spoke to three staff members about this unique journey.听

Engagement Tutor, Callum Taylor, finished sixth form and decided he didn鈥檛 want to go to university. He wanted a job instead.听

鈥淎fter a few weeks of applying for jobs, I wasn’t really getting anywhere so I went to Careers Wales and they referred me to 大象传媒.鈥� Callum explained. 鈥淚 did a level 1 大象传媒 course and after a few months, I was put on placement in Hadfield Road as a teaching assistant. I must’ve done alright, because a few months later I was offered a job.鈥�听

Despite this, teaching wasn鈥檛 the first path that came to Callum at 大象传媒. 鈥湸笙蟠� initially sourced me an admin placement, which I did for a few months,鈥� he recalled. 鈥淏ut it didn鈥檛 feel like the right fit for me.鈥� Unsure of his next steps, he returned to the centre to explore other options. That鈥檚 when his tutor suggested a placement as a teaching assistant. 鈥淚 decided to give it a try, and I really enjoyed it. It helped me realise that I was better suited for a role in teaching or training than in admin.鈥�听

This experience set him on a new route. His time as a learner at 大象传媒 taught him much more than technical skills – it gave him the knowledge he needed professionally. 鈥淚 learned how to apply for jobs, present myself in interviews, and become more employable,鈥� he explained. Beyond the practical lessons, he also gained personal insight through wellbeing sessions. 鈥淭hose sessions helped me think more critically about a lot of issues and prepared me for the challenges of my work placement.鈥�听

His placement as a teaching assistant at Hadfield Road lasted about three months, and it became a turning point in his career. 鈥淎s the placement was coming to an end, the centre manager took me aside and asked if I鈥檇 be interested in turning it into a job.鈥澨�听

Callum accepted the offer, initially working as a general classroom assistant. About a year later, he transitioned into his current role as an engagement tutor.听

Now, as a learning coach, his role focuses on supporting learners鈥� wellbeing, but it spans multiple areas. 鈥淚 deliver wellbeing sessions, have one-on-one chats with learners who might be struggling, and even handle a fair amount of admin,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a bit of everything, but the most rewarding part is working directly with the learners and seeing their development during their time on programme.鈥�听

However, the transition from learner to staff wasn鈥檛 without its challenges. 鈥淎t first, it was difficult because some of the learners I worked with were people I鈥檇 been friendly with as a fellow learner,鈥� he admitted. 鈥淏ut over time, as I gained experience and those learners moved on, it became easier. I鈥檒l never forget my first Christmas party, seeing the staff I worked with as a learner really let their hair down 鈥� it was such a different side to them!鈥澨�听

Looking back, he believes his experiences as a learner have profoundly shaped his approach to his role. 鈥淚 have so much empathy for our learners because I understand what they鈥檙e going through,鈥� he said. 鈥淔or many of them, we鈥檙e not their main priority鈥� they鈥檝e got other challenges in their lives. It鈥檚 important not to take it personally when they don鈥檛 prioritise their learning.鈥�听

His journey from learner to staff member has also given him a unique perspective on 大象传媒 as a whole.

鈥淚鈥檝e seen how 大象传媒 works from both sides, and that鈥檚 given me a deeper understanding of the learner journey. It鈥檚 incredibly rewarding to now be part of that journey for others, helping them navigate their challenges and grow, just as I did.鈥�听

At 17, life after school felt uncertain for Learner Outreach Worker Nazma Hassan. Disengaged and unsure of what career path to pursue, she found herself at a crossroads. 鈥淚 wasn鈥檛 sure what to do,鈥� she said. 鈥淏ut then I met with Careers Wales, and they introduced me to apprenticeship pathways with 大象传媒. It really clicked with me because I鈥檓 a practical learner who thrives on-the-job.鈥�听

What made 大象传媒 stand out wasn鈥檛 just its practical approach, but also the sense of independence it fostered. 鈥淚 loved that 大象传媒 didn鈥檛 feel like school. That freedom motivated me to stay engaged with my course.鈥澨�听

Nazma chose to pursue a Business Administration course, seeing potential for growth in the field. A placement in 大象传媒鈥檚 Health & Safety department marked the beginning of her journey. 鈥淭hat鈥檚 where it all started,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 completed my Level 1 Business Admin and had the opportunity to progress to an apprenticeship, where I earned my Level 2 and 3 Business Admin qualifications. I then transitioned to the Data Administration team.鈥�听

Her career goals evolved along the way. 鈥淲hen I first joined 大象传媒, I thought I wanted to be a teacher. But after some work placement experience, I realised it wasn鈥檛 for me. I was lucky to figure this out early and pivot toward something that felt like a better fit.鈥�听

Through her time learning with 大象传媒, Nazma gained not just technical skills but also personal resilience. 鈥淥ne of the biggest lessons I learned was how to face challenges head-on and boost my confidence. If something didn鈥檛 work out, I found alternatives or sought support from my tutors. I became more independent and ambitious, even when some friends started to disengage from the course. I didn鈥檛 let that affect my own progression.鈥�听

Her commitment paid off. After completing her Level 1 Business Admin, her line manager saw her potential and recommended her for an apprenticeship role within 大象传媒. 鈥淚 went through the interview process with HR and was thrilled to be offered the position,鈥� she said.听

For the next 14 years, she thrived as a Data Administrator. Her role encompassed everything from processing learner payments and managing data entry to auditing and reception duties. But her journey didn鈥檛 stop there. 鈥淥ver a year ago, new roles were developed within the JGW+ Programme, and I applied for an Outreach Recruitment Worker position. I got the job, and it鈥檚 been incredible. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow even further.鈥�听

When a friend suggested to Hadfield Receptionist Jess Stiff that she should join her on a hair and barbering course at 大象传媒, the thought of enrolling had never crossed her mind. But after touring the centre, she was intrigued.听听

鈥淚 hadn鈥檛 even heard of 大象传媒 before my friend brought it up,鈥� Jess explained, 鈥渂ut once I saw what they offered, I decided to pursue a Level 1 in Animal Care instead, which eventually led to completing my Level 1 Land-Based Studies.鈥�听

Her decision wasn鈥檛 random. A deep fascination with wildlife and a strong interest in big cats had shaped her original career goal – to become a zoologist. 鈥淚鈥檝e always been fascinated by wildlife,鈥� Jess said. 鈥淭he idea of working with big cats and studying their behaviours really inspired me.鈥�听

Her time as a learner at 大象传媒 became a period of intense growth, both personally and professionally. The course taught her a wide range of practical and transferable skills, which would prove invaluable in her career. 鈥淚 developed time management, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 also improved my communication and research abilities. On the practical side, I learned basic animal care skills like feeding, watering, health checks, and proper handling techniques. I even got hands-on experience with enclosure maintenance, including choosing the right substrates and enrichment items.鈥�听

The transition from learner to staff member was an unexpected but welcome twist in her journey. 鈥淚 was still on programme when I was offered a job,鈥� she recalled. 鈥淢y tutor at the time really helped me prepare for it. Initially, I started as a placement learner, but soon they decided to take me on full-time. Now, I work here.鈥�听

Today, her role at 大象传媒 involves an array of responsibilities. 鈥淚 handle greeting and welcoming visitors, managing incoming calls and inquiries, as well as overseeing mail and deliveries.听听听

鈥淭here鈥檚 also a security aspect to my role, ensuring visitor protocols are followed, and I assist with learners鈥� certificates. Additionally, I lead tours of the building, giving potential learners insights into our courses and what they entail.鈥�听

Moving from being a learner to becoming part of the staff wasn鈥檛 without its challenges. 鈥淎t first, it was overwhelming,鈥� she admitted. 鈥淭here was so much to learn and remember. But gradually, I got the hang of things and started to really enjoy it. The environment here is so welcoming and friendly. When I was later transferred to another centre, I felt nervous all over again, but within a week, I settled in and felt comfortable.鈥�听

Her time at 大象传媒 is filled with memories that highlight her growth and adaptability. 鈥淥ne of my favourite moments was being on stage and answering questions from Scott Quinnell about my course and career goals,鈥� she shared. 鈥淎nother standout experience was working in the caf茅, which gave me valuable skills in a completely different setting.鈥�听

Looking back, she credits her experience as a learner at 大象传媒 for shaping the way she approaches her work today. 鈥淚t taught me how to work both independently and as part of a team.听

鈥淚鈥檝e become more punctual, confident, and financially responsible. My communication skills have also improved significantly.鈥�听

This cutting-edge facility, located within Cardiff鈥檚 Ocean Park House, includes a fully equipped hair studio, a dedicated nail and beauty treatment studio, and multiple classrooms. Together, these spaces are designed to create a real-life salon environment where learners can refine their skills and prepare for successful careers in the industry.听

The H&B Academy recently celebrated its soft launch with a festive gathering of partners and local businesses from related fields. The event offered attendees a sneak peek at the Academy鈥檚 facilities and a chance to witness its vision in action. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, setting a promising tone for its official opening.听

To delve deeper into what makes the Hair & Beauty Academy unique, we spoke with Charlotte Sims, the salon鈥檚 Delivery Manager, about the vision, goals, and impact of this transformative initiative.听

The Hair and Beauty Academy is a vital part of the JGW+ skills centre. Learners enrolled in hair, beauty and barbering courses through JGW+ will have access to high-quality, industry-standard salons where they can gain experience and insight not only from their tutors but also their peers. Apprenticeship learners, who are further along in their professional journey, will also benefit from fortnightly workshops with their assessors.听

Charlotte emphasised the importance of working in a salon setting for building both confidence and competence: 鈥淥ur learners start on Entry Level and Level 1 courses,鈥� she said. 鈥淏eginning their training in a professional salon environment helps them develop practical skills and theoretical knowledge, making them work-ready.听听

鈥淭hey practice everything from shampooing and blow-drying to nails, facials, makeup, and more. As they progress to salon placements, we work closely with their employers to ensure their training is tailored to meet the needs of the business.鈥�听

What sets the H&B Academy apart is its personable approach to training. The focus is not only on technical skills but also on employability and personal development. 鈥淲e鈥檝e created a welcoming, supportive environment where learners can relax, make new friends, and build their confidence,鈥� Charlotte explained. 鈥淲e also emphasise the importance of health and wellbeing, as this directly impacts their success in the workplace.鈥�听

The H&B Academy鈥檚 robust support system includes World of Work advisors, learner coaches, counselling services, and Essential Skills development tutors to ensure the underpinning of basic skills like numeracy, communication and digital literacy. These resources ensure that learners are not only developing their craft but also gaining the tools to thrive professionally and personally.听

While the practical setting provides invaluable experience, it also presents challenges. According to Charlotte, building confidence among learners is one of the most significant hurdles: 鈥淪ometimes, learners are hesitant to practice their skills on one another,鈥� she said.

鈥淥ur tutors play a crucial role in guiding and encouraging them every step of the way.鈥�听

However, the rewards far outweigh the challenges. 鈥淚t鈥檚 incredibly fulfilling to see learners grow and excel,鈥� Charlotte said. 鈥淢any of our students come to us after struggling in traditional academic settings. By tapping into their creativity and providing hands-on learning opportunities, we鈥檙e often able to unlock their potential. Some have even gone on to own their own salons, barbershops, and beauty businesses.鈥�听

Despite only launching this month, the H&B Academy has ambitious goals for the coming year. It aims to expand its cohort of learners and deepen partnerships with local salons to provide more placement opportunities.听听

鈥淲e want to work closely with employers to ensure our training aligns with their needs. By doing so, we鈥檙e not only supporting our learners but also contributing to the success of local businesses,鈥� Charlotte explained.听

The H&B Academy is also keen to find new talent. For those considering a career in hair and beauty, Charlotte鈥檚 advice is simple. She said: 鈥淚f you鈥檙e passionate about this field, don鈥檛 be afraid of hard work. Every task you do, no matter how small, contributes to building your future. From arranging product displays to making clients a cup of tea, these moments teach you valuable people skills and business acumen. Most importantly, have fun. Happy, friendly professionals are what clients want to see, so let your passion shine through in everything you do.鈥�听

If you would like to learn more about JGW+ or if you鈥檙e an employer looking to offer a placement to a future stylist or beautician, contact us.

Of the 118 Welsh learners who took part in the competition, 70 bagged a medal 鈥� with Team Wales taking 16 gold, 20 silver, 22 bronze, and 12 highly commended.听

大象传媒 accountancy apprentices, Gareth Williams and Jessica Poole, took bronze at the finals which were held in venues across Manchester from November 19th to November 22nd.听

The duo鈥檚 achievement was the result of many months of hard work, with the pair progressing throughout the competition from local and regional levels.听

The competition began earlier this year with Skills Competition Wales, which is coordinated by the Inspiring Skills Excellence in Wales project. Partly funded by the Welsh Government and run by colleges, work-based learning providers and organisations, it aims to inspire future generations by showcasing the importance of vocational skills.听

Nerys Hiscocks, Gareth and Jess鈥� AAT tutor at 大象传媒, said: 鈥淐onsidering Jess and Gareth began Level 3 just over a year ago and have already competed in both Welsh Skills and World Skills, it’s incredible to see how much they’ve grown and accomplished. 听

鈥淭he knowledge and skill set they brought to the competition were remarkable, and I feel that I’ve learned just as much from them as I have taught them. Both of them have bright futures ahead, and I鈥檓 so proud to have played a part in their journey.鈥�听

Karen Richards, AAT route coordinator at 大象传媒, added: 鈥淎fter winning Gold in the Skills competition Wales in January, Gareth and Jess next entered the WorldSkills UK Accounting Technician competition. Here they would be competing against learners who had completed or almost completed AAT L4. As they progressed through the qualifying rounds, it was wonderful to see them grow in confidence as individuals as well as a team. Watching them present in the National qualifiers was a real privilege. Their joy and pride in a job well done was infectious. 听

听鈥淲inning a place in the National finals meant they now needed to work beyond the AAT curriculum in order to critically evaluate the position of a business and its business strategies for entering new markets. 听

鈥淥n day one they were provided with a case study and required to create a presentation that addressed five key tasks. 听

鈥淥n day two, whilst waiting to present, Gareth and Jess had to complete a range of accounting calculation tasks. They then gave a 17-minute PowerPoint presentation on their analysis of the case study (which they chose to do without notes). The case study they worked on was designed to stretch learners and provide an example of the depth of analysis required during L7 Accounting studies.听

鈥淛ust three weeks into their L4 studies, Gareth and Jess competed over two days, at the WorldSkills finals in Oldham. We were all delighted when they won the Bronze Medal. They were the only team of two to win a medal.听听

鈥淎s a team, we are so tremendously proud of Gareth and Jess. The medals are impressive but the way they worked as a team and strove to improve was exemplary. As tutors, we had no experience of the WorldSkills that we could impart, so their achievements are all the more impressive.鈥�听

The achievements of Gareth, Jess and the rest of the Welsh team even caught the attention of Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership, Jack Sargeant, who said: 鈥淚 congratulate Team Wales on their remarkable success at the WorldSkills UK and SkillBuild National Finals. Once again, they demonstrated their excellence, emerging triumphant with an impressive haul of medals, highlighting the dedication and talent within our country.鈥�听

大象传媒 has climbed the list since its placing last year, retaining its place in the top five education and training organisations nationally, and moving to the 56th best large company to work for in the UK, and 11th best in Wales.听

听The Best Companies accreditation recognises small, mid-size, large and big businesses across different regions and sectors nationally, rating them on important factors such as wellbeing, leadership and fair pay. These are tallied using an anonymous survey to staff.听

Head of People and Development at 大象传媒, Rebecca Cooper, said: 鈥�After a challenging year, we鈥檙e incredibly proud to have retained our two-star accreditation with Best Companies for outstanding levels of staff engagement, as well as to have secured our place 鈥� and even advanced 鈥� on the national, regional, and sector-specific Best Companies to Work For lists. 听

This achievement is a testament to the passion and dedication of our entire team 鈥� from senior leaders to managers and employees 鈥� who continually strive to make 大象传媒 a fantastic place to work.听

鈥淲e recognise there鈥檚 always room for improvement. This year, we鈥檙e committed to investing significant time and resources into analysing our employee engagement data and collaborating with every team at 大象传媒 to develop actionable plans that enhance our workplace culture even further.鈥� 听

大象传媒 Managing Director, Richard Spear, added: 鈥淭his is a fantastic result for 大象传媒 and, after a year filled with external challenges, truly underscores the strength and resilience of our team. 听

鈥淲e鈥檙e thrilled to have moved up the top 100 list and are immensely grateful to each member of our staff for making 大象传媒 such a remarkable place to work. 听

鈥淲hile this is a great achievement, we recognise there is always more we can do. I look forward to working together with all my colleagues to make 大象传媒 an even better place to work and thrive.鈥�听

大象传媒 has been an accredited 鈥極utstanding Company to Work For鈥� with Best Companies for nearly a decade and is dedicated to ensuring it remains a company of choice for people looking for a career in education.听

Internationally renowned businesses such as Arriva, Interserve and Hanson have already reduced their environmental impact and improved their bottom line with Sustainability Skills for the Workforce, book now to rapidly upskill your workforce and increase performance, efficiency, and impact.

Environmental Sustainability Skills for the Workforce is an introductory course which helps your team get to grips with the basics, giving a fundamental awareness of environment and sustainability issues. This is ideal for members of the team who work at an operational level. See improvements in your performance after just one day.听

This qualification is designed for use within land-based industries. It would be particularly useful for those learners who are progressing into the Sustainability Officer/Co-ordinator/Advisor role and those with job roles which have responsibilities for sustainability reviews and planning within businesses and organisations听

To achieve this certificate, learners will attend 4 face-to-face workshops. During these workshops, they will gain knowledge and understanding of sustainability, the environment, climate change, and net-zero. After each workshop, learners will have a break to complete sample assessment papers before sitting their final assessments.听

This short course is a step up from the award and is perfect for organisations that are working towards or have implemented an Environmental Management System, such as ISO14001.听

Investing in sustainable working practices can not only benefit the environment but also your organisation’s bottom line. By implementing sustainable practices, you can save costs on resources, improve your brand image, and even attract more customers who value sustainability.听

Karen wanted to upskill but she needed a course to work around her job in a primary school, that鈥檚 when she found the Level 3 Specialist Support for Teaching and Learning in Schools qualification (STLS) with 大象传媒.

The qualification provides learners with an enhanced understanding of their roles and responsibilities in an education setting, developing their professionalism, knowledge and confidence in their work with children and colleagues.

鈥淚t was a course I could do while working,鈥� Karen explained. 鈥淔lexibility was key. I was able to improve my literacy and numeracy skills and enhance my knowledge within the role.鈥�

As well as improving essential skills in the application of numbers and communication, Karen found that the qualification gave her a confidence boost.

鈥淚鈥檓 a better teaching assistant than I was before. I am more secure and confident in what I am doing. I no longer feel unqualified.鈥�

Talking about the practicalities of completing a qualification while working, Karen said: 鈥淚t was great because I was able to work at my own pace and in my own space. The deadlines were achievable.

鈥淢y assessor, Charlotte, was wonderful. There were two occasions where I was close to quitting. Nothing to do with the course, but to do with confidence and resilience. When I had my meetings with Charlotte, her encouragement and boosts were a relief and a push for me to finish my course. And I did it.

My employer was also encouraging and helpful. They were great in giving Charlotte a chance to go and assess me at work.鈥�

Despite some hurdles along the way, Karen has the learning bug and has now set her sights on an even bigger challenge.

She said: 鈥淭his course, my colleagues and Charlotte have motivated me to go far beyond what I expected – as far as wanting to get a degree. I have taken the plunge and I am a university woman now, just waiting to start on the next adventure.鈥�

Asked if she had any words of encouragement for someone on the fence as to whether to take up a course, Karen said: 鈥淒o it, it is a wonderful chance to learn new things and get your brain going. If you are a mum like me it is a chance to do something for yourself. You do it in the comfort of your home, with loads of support, and you are never alone in the course.鈥�

If you would like to explore work-based learning options, find out more here.

1. Engagement

A starting point for young people who aren’t sure of what they’re interested in. This strand offers short work trials, centre based learning and a variety of enrichment opportunities.

2. Advancement

Developed for young people who have an interest in a particular career. This strand offers industry focused work tasters and placements, a Level 1 qualification and a variety of enrichment opportunities.

3. Employment

For young people who are ready for full-time employment. This strand offers employability sessions, job preparation skills, interview technique training, essential skills qualification and enrichment activities.

Wales鈥� leading training provider, 大象传媒, has announced outstanding results from its latest Learner Voice Survey, capturing feedback from nearly 5,000 learners.

This survey, a cornerstone of 大象传媒’s commitment to continuous improvement and learner satisfaction, reveals high levels of student skill development.

This year鈥檚 survey saw an upswing in responses, with 4876 submissions across the network of 大象传媒 and its partners, up by more than a thousand from last year (3721).

Within 大象传媒 alone, 1663 gave feedback, up from just over a thousand (1196) last year.

Of that number, 99 per cent said that they felt they were treated fairly and with respect at 大象传媒.

Other key findings include:

94% of 大象传媒 learners would recommend their courses to others.

86% of learners reported enhanced communication, numeracy, and literacy skills through 大象传媒鈥檚 Essential Skills workshops.

Overall, 96 per cent of learners would positively rate 大象传媒 as a training provider.

Learner Representative, Lily Pandeles, whose key role is to advocate for learners across 大象传媒鈥檚 programmes, was pleased with the initial results.

She said: 鈥淚t is amazing to see many learners share their thoughts and give us feedback. We want learners to feel empowered throughout their learning journey and to know their voices are important.鈥�

Head of Continuous Improvement Becky Morris leads the Quality department at 大象传媒. She explained why the survey was so important to the organisation.

鈥淲e set up our 大象传媒 Network learner survey with the aim of collecting feedback from learners across 大象传媒 and our partner providers,鈥� she said. 鈥淢y team analyses the data at a network, provider, departmental and practitioner level to identify what learners feel we do well and where we need to improve.

鈥淭his information is a crucial part of our quality assurance processes, and learner voice is one of the most important measures in our self-evaluation process too.

鈥淎ll of our learners matter, their voice matters, and we value the important role that our learners play in shaping what we do, and how we do it.鈥�

These results affirm 大象传媒鈥檚 dedication to providing high-quality training and support, ensuring that every learner’s experience is positive and enriching. 大象传媒 continues to lead the way in work-based learning, driven by the invaluable feedback and active participation of its learners.

Designed to promote mental health, resilience, and overall employee well-being, these courses provide practical strategies and tools for managing stress, building confidence, and improving mental health awareness. Perfect for HR managers, team leaders, and employees at all levels, our wellbeing courses help create a supportive and productive workplace. Enrol today to boost your team’s morale and performance.