Jobs Growth Wales+ helps teens in Wales to find work

The scheme helped give Dom Jones, the confidence, support and guidance he needed to land a full-time role in his dream industry.

From an early age, the 18-year-old, from Buckley, was driven by hands-on learning, but he felt unclear about his career path. The Welsh Government's training programme which helps young people earn money, find independence and get on the career ladder, proved instrumental in guiding Dom on his career journey.

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Under the nurturing umbrella of Jobs Growth Wales+, Dom cast his net wide in search of local employment. His determination and unwavering work ethic soon led him to a full-time position as a waste operative with Deeside-based builders' merchant, Thorncliffe Building Supplies Ltd, who were quick to recognise Dom's enthusiasm and potential.

Dom Jones (right) with Rob Moore, assistant waste manager at Thorncliffe Building Supplies. (Image: Jobs Growth Wales+)

Speaking about his journey from education into work, Dom said: "Joining the Jobs Growth Wales+ programme had an instant positive impact on my approach to work and my career.

"They encouraged me to retake my English and maths GCSE qualifications, where I was able to raise my grades, which helped boost the skills on my CV when applying for jobs.

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"The interview preparation with the team at college really helped me build my confidence and make me realise that I had the technical and personal skills for the Thorncliffe role. I was called for an interview almost straight away after sending in my application, and just a few days after, I was offered the post.

"I recently went back to my college with individual cards for my tutors to thank them for helping change my life around for the better - I couldn't have done it without them."

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Part of the Welsh Government's Young Person's Guarantee, Jobs Growth Wales+ is a training and development programme for 16 to 19-year-olds that equips individuals with the skills, qualifications and experience they need to get a job or further training. It is designed to boost confidence whilst providing tailored opportunities and support to help individuals, like Dom, reach their potential.

Driven by his passion for environmental causes, Dom prides himself on his contributions to Wales' net-zero objectives through the recycling efforts required in his role.

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He added: "My main duty includes sorting recycling into different piles including metal, plastic, and glass.

"We recycle as much material as possible and turn what is left into a valuable resource to divert waste from landfill, which is helping to reduce the impact of waste on the environment.

"I love my job and the people that I work with - I have a really great team around me which makes me want to come to work in the mornings."

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Tracy Dyment, HR manager associate at Thorncliffe, said: "Since joining us, Dom has been a huge asset to the team. There's a huge skills shortage in the industry at the moment so it's brilliant to have someone as young and enthusiastic as Dom join the company and gain hands-on experience. I'd definitely encourage other young people who are unsure about their next steps to consider Jobs Growth Wales+."

Despite being just four months into his role, Dom is thriving in his position and has already set his sights on further growth within the company.

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Dom said: "I want to keep improving and moving forward in my career, and hopefully soon become a machine driver operative or a Banksman where I can help guide the lorries arriving at the depot or relocate waste around our warehouse."

Dom has one piece of advice for those thinking about what to do after leaving school.

He said: "If you are struggling to know what to do next, don't give up too fast. You don't know what future you might have ahead of you, just put the work into your passion, keep your head down, and amazing things can happen to you."

• If you're aged 16 to 19, living in Wales and have just left school or are looking for work, you may be eligible for the Jobs Growth Wales+ programme.

To find out more about Jobs Growth Wales+ visit workingwales.gov.wales/jobs-growth-wales-plus or call Working Wales on 0800 028 4844.