Higher Apprentice of the Year Award for inspirational Preschool Leader Jessica

34 year old Neath Port Talbot resident Jessica Williams, a preschool leader at Ser Bach y Cwm, Ystradgynlais has won the prestigious ‘Higher Apprentice of the Year Award’ at the Apprenticeship Awards Cymru 2024. The Awards ceremony was held at the ICC Wales, Newport, 22nd March 24.  

A gas explosion, which wrecked Jessica’s Seven Sisters home in 2020 resulted in life changing injuries for Jessica. Overcoming these, Jessica continued her role as a preschool leader, an inspiration to all the people around her.

To develop her knowledge and skills, Jessica enrolled on a Higher Apprenticeship (Level 5) in Children’s Care, Learning and Development, Leadership and Management. Jessica put in a lot of hard work. After two years, Jessica gained her Level 5 Certificate, an achievement she is immensely proud of.

When asked what she valued most from the course Jessica said, “Learning more about the management side of childcare and the best ways to communicate with the team.”

Jessica would encourage anyone looking to develop their career to look into apprenticeship courses in Wales.

Jessica said, “Going back to assignments was quite difficult because I had been out of full time education for so long. I say just believe in yourself and go for it”.

If you are a resident of Neath Port Talbot and interested in Apprenticeships then call Andy Cavill, Apprenticeship Co-Ordinator, Neath Port Talbot Council, 07976 623914.

NPT Employability is a Neath Port Talbot Council service and is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.