Jobs Growth Wales + programme gives learner a confidence boost

For ACT, the mantra ‘improving lives through learning’, extends much further than just education and training. We want learners to thrive in their studies but also gain confidence that will help them both personally and professionally.

Lucy Davies is a Jobs Growth Wales + learner from Aberdare. She came to ACT through the organisations Get Ready programme, which is aimed at learners who need a quieter space to begin learning, as well as some additional wellbeing support.

Lucy, who has hearing difficulties, did not have a good experience while at school and sometimes felt overlooked. Lucy has been partially deaf since birth, which has impacted on her time in education.

When she started in ACT, Lucy was a quiet member of the class and needed encouragement to join in and take part in the day-to-day activities. But, over time, she was able to come into the centre with confidence and began showing her personality and developing her learning style.

Lucy’s tutor, Becky Jones, said:

“Lucy has moved onto the engagement strand of the programme after successfully completing Get Ready and is about to start work placement in a dog groomers, which she is very excited about. Lucy is an animal lover and has many pets at home so she will be a natural in the placement.”

Reflecting on her journey so far, Lucy added: “I have really enjoyed my time here in ACT, and I have received lots of support which I have never had before, especially from Becky my tutor.

“ACT has helped me build up my skills and confidence, which has helped me with my everyday life so much. Making new friends has made my days in ACT even better, and I am very grateful to everyone in centre.

“I would never have achieved half of the things that I have without their love and support.”