A recent scheme in Merthyr Tydfil has been helping young people in or leaving care to explore various career opportunities, in an effort to inspire and guide them towards a fruitful future. The initiative involves a group of young individuals aged 11-16, who participated in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) trip to Brecon Mountain Railway and Tilbury Douglas at Prince Charles Hospital. This scheme is part of Merthyr Tydfil Council’s Pathway To Work Team (P2W) and aims to provide a fun and informative way for young people to learn about potential career paths.
The programme, named “Ewch Amdani! Go for it!”, is designed to engage looked-after children and care leavers during the summer holidays. It offers a week-long schedule of activities focused on education, future aspirations, and the opportunities available in south Wales. The recent STEM trip to local companies allowed the young participants to gain firsthand experience and insights into the diverse jobs required for businesses to operate successfully.
During their visit to Brecon Mountain Railway, the group enjoyed a memorable experience, starting with a scenic journey on the steam train observation carriages from Pant to Torpantau. Along the way, they had the chance to interact with visiting pupils from France, practising basic French language skills and broadening their cultural horizons. The young individuals also engaged with staff members, asked questions, and learned about the various job roles at the railway, including STEM-related positions and potential apprenticeship opportunities.
At the Tilbury Douglas site located at Prince Charles Hospital, the participants were able to explore the construction firm and gain a deeper understanding of the roles and responsibilities within such an industry. By interacting with site managers and employees, they received valuable insights into the recruitment process, the importance of different job functions, and the potential career pathways available in the field of construction.
The overarching goal of this scheme is to empower young people in care or leaving care by providing them with real-world experiences, practical knowledge, and valuable connections within different industries. By exposing them to a variety of career options and engaging activities, the programme aims to inspire and encourage these individuals to pursue their interests and ambitions with confidence. Through initiatives like these, communities can support and nurture the aspirations of young people, helping them build brighter futures for themselves.
Overall, the scheme in Merthyr Tydfil serves as a commendable example of how local authorities and organisations can come together to create meaningful opportunities for young individuals in need of support. By fostering a spirit of exploration, learning, and aspiration, initiatives like these not only benefit the participants directly involved but also contribute to building a more inclusive and empowered community for all.