Paid work opportunity leads to welding apprenticeship
Overview
Dylan Jones wanted a career in welding.
After meeting with his NPT Employability mentor in December 2024, he began welding training with JES Skills Academy in January 2025.
Dylan completed his initial course before moving on to MAG welding training, where he continued to develop his skills.
His instructors recognised his potential and were impressed by the quality of his work.
Grants and funding
This support was funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) People and Skills programme.
The project helped Dylan:
- gain industry-recognised welding skills
- build confidence in the workplace
- access paid employment opportunities
- progress towards an apprenticeship
Project features
On 19 May 2025, Dylan started a 12-week Paid Work Opportunity (PWO) with support from NPT Employability and JES Skills Academy.
Working in a real-world environment allowed him to:
- develop new welding techniques
- gain hands-on industry experience
- build confidence and workplace knowledge
- earn a wage while learning
Dylan settled into the role quickly and continued to develop his skills throughout the placement.
Feedback
"I am loving this placement. I have had good feedback and my bosses are extremely happy with my work. That makes me even more motivated to do my best for the company.
I am very thankful for all the support I have received from NPT Employability and JES. I am really looking forward to starting my apprenticeship."
- Dylan Jones
"From the moment Dylan arrived at JES, you could see he had a great attitude and carried himself well.
During his Paid Work Opportunity, Dylan consistently produced work to a high standard. He impressed us so much that JES Group offered him a full-time apprenticeship starting in September.
The placement has also benefited JES Group. There is a skills shortage in our industry and it can be difficult to attract quality tradespeople. Dylan has helped fill that gap and has produced commercial work for us."
- Sam Owen, JES Skills Academy
Outcome
Dylan's commitment and progress throughout his training and placement impressed the team at JES Skills Academy, leading to an offer of a welding apprenticeship starting in September 2025.
The opportunity enabled him to gain recognised skills, workplace experience and the confidence to begin his career in the welding industry.