As Apprenticeship Week 2026 comes to a close, Pembrokeshire College is celebrating outstanding apprenticeship success across the region. From health and social care to IT, engineering, business administration and childcare, apprentices are gaining qualifications, growing in confidence and making a real impact in workplaces across Pembrokeshire.
This year, we’re proud to share the inspiring stories of learners and employers who highlight the true value of apprenticeships and the positive difference work‑based learning brings to both careers and communities.
Health & Social Care
Children and Young People
Sarah Cooper – Landsker Childcare
After many years as an Learning Support Assistant (LSA), Sarah began her Level 3 apprenticeship in September 2025 and now works as a senior in a children’s residential home.
Training Officer Mel said:
“The apprenticeship route provides time, support and structure tailored to each learner. Pembrokeshire College works closely with Landsker to build a highly skilled workforce.”
Drew Cunningham – Landsker Childcare
Drew started his Level 3 apprenticeship in October 2024 and is progressing well towards completion in May 2026 while gaining valuable hands-on experience as a residential childcare worker.
Sonia Clague – Holly House, Pembrokeshire County Council
Sonia works in respite care for children with disabilities and completed her Level 3 apprenticeship while working full-time.
Sonia said:
“I’ve gained valuable knowledge and thoroughly enjoyed the apprenticeship. My assessor has been amazing.”
Lucy Neal – West Lodge
Lucy changed careers to enter social care and completed her Level 3 qualification alongside full-time work. She is now progressing to Level 4.
Lucy said:
“The support from my assessor was invaluable. Pembrokeshire College helped me balance work and study.”
Manager Sharon added:
“Our assessor goes above and beyond. Using a local college ensures staff are supported and meet required standards.”
Adults
Beth Clark – Level 3 Health & Social Care: Practice (Adults)
Having progressed from Level 2, Beth is completing her Level 3 apprenticeship with strong support from her assessor.
Beth said:
“The apprenticeship lets me work, study and balance home life with my little boy. I’ve been so well supported.”
Childcare
Chloe John – Golden Manor Nursery
Chloe is completing her Level 3 qualification and is praised for her warm, calm approach and dedication to the children she supports.
Owner Ruth said:
“Chloe has grown in confidence and shows great empathy. She’s even learned BSL to support a key child. We’ve always had a positive relationship with Pembrokeshire College.”
Chloe said:
“Learning while working suits me far better. The apprenticeship has helped me build confidence and develop new skills.”
Healthcare
Hanna – NHS Clinical Healthcare Apprentice
Hanna is about to complete her Level 3 Clinical Healthcare qualification before progressing to Level 4 at Swansea University. She has embraced the responsibility of her role and values being able to support patients in both Welsh and English.
Hanna said:
“Being an apprentice has made me more confident and independent because people rely on me.”
Her apprenticeship has strengthened her communication, resilience and professional skills.
“Working in healthcare has helped me develop a strong work ethic and balance training, deadlines and home life.”
A highlight of her journey has been reaching the final of the B‑wbl Welsh Language of the Year Award, a recognition she is very proud of.
Teleri – NHS Nursing Apprentice
Teleri is celebrating her first year as an NHS Nursing Apprentice, describing it as a year filled with growth, learning and hands-on experience.
Teleri said:
“The year has been full of learning, challenges, new experiences and a huge sense of pride.”
Working on the wards and in outpatients has given her invaluable practical skills, while the academic side has helped her link theory directly to real patient care.
“Balancing work, study and life has been challenging but so rewarding.”
Support from mentors, colleagues and fellow apprentices has helped her thrive. She now feels certain she has chosen the right career path.
“I’ve built a solid foundation and can’t wait to keep developing as a nurse.”
Business Administration
Emily – Picton Castle & Gardens
Emily joined as a business apprentice and quickly became an essential member of the team.
Assistant Director Tania Hart said:
“The College provided excellent guidance and Emily gained skills and confidence throughout her course. We were delighted to offer her a permanent role.”
IT & Technical Apprenticeships – Port of Milford Haven
The Port of Milford Haven continues to offer high quality apprenticeships that blend practical learning with real industry experience.
Sam Humfrey – Apprentice Commercial Electrical Technician
“I now see a clear career path with opportunities to progress, specialise and take on more responsibility in the future.”
Isaac Noyce – Apprentice ICT Technician
“Being based at the Port has given me experiences I never would have had if I’d only followed a traditional classroom route into IT.”
Freddi Nye – Apprentice ICT Technician
“You still have the comfort of college learning, but you also gain real-life experience that you can’t get at school.”
Elyse Cook – Apprentice Building Maintenance Technician
“It was an opportunity for me to retrain and develop skills I never thought I would be doing.”
Employer Perspective
Care and Independence Llanelli
Service Manager Hayley Pearce said:
“Choosing the apprenticeship route has transformed our staff engagement, skills and quality of care. It’s one of the best decisions we’ve made.”
A Week of Achievement and Inspiration
Across every sector, these stories highlight the value of apprenticeships in developing confident, skilled and motivated professionals. Pembrokeshire College is proud to support apprentices and employers across the region, helping people develop careers with purpose.
If you’d like to learn more about apprenticeship opportunities, visit our Apprenticeships page or contact our Work-based Learning team.
