Coleg Cambria students bring new life to neglected spaces

Since April, Cefn Community Council has worked with Coleg Cambria’s Jobs Growth Wales students on a range of projects.

The initiative, led by the council’s community development officer, Andrew Ruscoe, and Coleg Cambria’s employability mentor, Donna Maloney, has seen students gain practical experience while enhancing the community.

Students helping to clean public areas (Image: Cefn Community Council)

The students have supported charitable organisations and freshened public green areas, including Rhosymedre Churchyard and Ty Mawr Country Park, near the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.

Their efforts have brought life back to neglected areas, making them welcoming spaces for the community.

Phil Vaughan, chairman of Cefn Community Council, said: "This collaboration with Coleg Cambria’s Jobs Growth Wales programme has been absolutely essential for our community.

"The energy and commitment these students bring is extraordinary – they’ve tackled overgrown areas, uncovered hidden spaces, and transformed neglected corners into thriving community assets.

The students have transformed neglected areas into spaces for the community to enjoy (Image: Cefn Community Council)

"Their work has had a lasting impact, not just on our surroundings, but on the lives of everyone involved.

"We are incredibly grateful to Donna Maloney, Brian Valentine, and each and every Coleg Cambria student for their unwavering dedication and passion.

"They’ve truly enriched our community, and in return, they’re gaining invaluable life skills that will shape their futures.

"We can't thank them enough."

The students' most recent project involved trimming overgrown hedges and clearing weeds around Cefn Mawr.

Their hard work even revealed a bench that had been hidden by nature.

Their efforts have made a noticeable difference, restoring pride in the area and creating spaces for everyone to enjoy.

Donna Maloney, from the Coleg Cambria Jobs Growth Wales programme, has been a key figure in this initiative, providing support and guidance to the students.

She said: "Volunteering has allowed our learners to develop and enhance hidden skills and qualities which they can utilise in their future roles.

"Working in the community, away from the boundaries of college, has enhanced their self-confidence, helped them to learn new skills and instilled a sense of pride in their achievements."

This partnership highlights the potential for collaboration between councils and educational institutions.

Together, they are not only revitalising the community but also helping young people develop the critical life skills and experiences needed to succeed in their futures.

These students are giving back in meaningful ways while building a foundation of personal growth, confidence, and a deep sense of responsibility.