Coleg Cambria continues to inspire and leave a lasting legacy in our county. This month, we feature an exceptional pupil and a new initiative to support adult learning.
Niamh Jones
Sparked a Dream
A PAINFUL visit to the dentist as a child left a lasting impression on Niamh Jones. The Coleg Cambria student will begin her first steps towards the profession by studying for a degree at Cardiff University.
Niamh, 18, from Wrexham, was inspired to pursue a career in dentistry after fracturing her two front teeth. The care and compassion she received sparked a dream to one day help others in the same way.
Niamh Jones
“That experience really stayed with me,” said Niamh, a former pupil at The Maelor School in Penley. “It made me realise how important a smile can be to someone’s confidence and how rewarding it would be to work in a job that helps people in such a personal way.”
Niamh completed A-levels in Biology, Chemistry and Maths at Coleg Cambria’s Yale Sixth Form. She received offers to study dentistry and decided on Cardiff after attending their Dentistry Summer School through the SEREN Network. Throughout her time at Cambria, Niamh has taken full advantage of the support and enrichment opportunities on offer. She joined the college’s Medic Society, where she learned more about university entry requirements, the UCAT exam, and gained valuable interview practice with feedback from doctors and medical students.
Grade 8 Piano
“The Medic Society gave me the confidence and preparation I needed,” she added. “The mock interviews and guidance on my application were a big part of why I was successful.”
A talented musician, Niamh is also working towards her Grade 8 piano and plays violin in local orchestras, including at the North Wales International Music Festival. She also sang in the Wrexham County Choir. Niamh thanked tutor Nora Richardson for her ongoing support and guidance during her time at Cambria.
Gareth Jones, Assistant Principal and Head of Yale Sixth Form, said: “Niamh’s journey shows how one moment of care can inspire a future career. Her drive, talent and determination make her a fantastic role model for others. We’re incredibly proud of what she has achieved and excited for her future.”
Visit cambria.ac.uk for more on studying for A Levels at Coleg Cambria. Alternatively, email [email protected], call 0300 30 30 007 or use the Chat now! | Coleg Cambria Customer Support facility on the website.
English, Maths and Digital Literacy Sessions
Coleg Cambria is reinforcing its commitment to adult learning by delivering more opportunities for people across north east Wales to gain vital qualifications and digital confidence.
Adult and Work-Based Skills
Gwersyllt Cricket Club
The college has launched a series of English, Maths, and Digital Literacy sessions in Flintshire, Wrexham, and St Asaph, Denbighshire, led by Claire Howells, Curriculum Director for Adult and Work-based Learning Skills, and Dean Nolan, Adult Learning Liaison Officer.
Classes are being delivered in libraries, community centres and outreach posts, with new venues such as The Parc Community Hub at Gwersyllt Cricket Club joining an expanding list that includes Sandy Lane Community Centre (Saltney), Parkfields Community Centre, Ash Grove (Mold), Rivertown URC Church (Shotton), Plas Madoc Leisure Centre (Acrefair) and Brynteg Library.
“We’re committed to removing barriers and meeting learners where they are,” said Claire. “By holding courses in accessible community spaces, we make it easier for people of all ages and backgrounds to fit learning into their daily lives. Whether for work, further study or personal growth, these skills open doors.”
Level 2 Qualifications
The programme offers Level 2 qualifications, equivalent to a GCSE grade C, which remain a key requirement for employment and apprenticeships, as well as progression into further and higher education. Alongside English and Maths, Cambria has expanded its digital learning offer, with courses in Google Suite and “How to Use Your Tablet Device” now running at Gresford Methodist Hall, Maximus UK in Wrexham, Little Acton Community Centre, Ysgol Maes Y Felin (Holywell), and additional locations.
“We’ve continued to see numbers rise post-COVID, with some sites oversubscribed,” said Dean. “The demand for upskilling is clear. Our aim is to be as flexible as possible, with venues that are convenient, connected, and supportive of working people as well as those seeking to re-enter education.”
The college’s expansion comes during Adult Learners’ Week, coordinated by the Learning and Work Institute Wales. This year’s themes – Learner Voices, Collaboration and Connection, Skills for Work and Progression, Essential Skills, and Health and Wellbeing – reflect the spirit of Cambria’s community outreach. Courses are designed around the learner, with personalised plans and the option to study remotely if needed.
“We Identify Gaps”
Tutor Kate Clements said, “Not everyone is at the same level. These qualifications are GCSE-equivalent but shaped by Essential Skills Wales. We identify gaps, whether that’s fractions or punctuation, and create activities to build confidence step by step. Every learner has an individual plan that supports their goals.”
For Jen Skelly, the classes have offered a chance to refresh skills and connect socially: “I studied at Yale College in Wrexham a decade ago, and this is a way to keep my mind active. It’s also been a lovely way to meet new people – and I really do enjoy Maths.”
Abbey Humphreys is using the opportunity to prepare for a Hair and Beauty course at Yale: “I already have Maths, but wanted to brush up before starting next year. The tutors are fantastic, and I’m enjoying it so much, it’s really helping my confidence.”
Essential to His Career Path
Meanwhile, Luke Roberts sees the courses as essential to his career path. “I work as a support worker for people with learning difficulties, and my goal is to become a care home manager,” he said. “I have experience and qualifications, but I need English and Maths to progress. Being dyslexic made school difficult, but learning in smaller groups with bite-sized information has transformed how I focus. My employer is also very supportive, which makes a huge difference.”
The success of these courses also relies on community partnerships. Emma Jones, Manager of The Parc Community Hub, welcomed the collaboration: “Following recent investment, we’ve increased the hub’s use for local people. Partnering with Coleg Cambria is a fantastic way to engage residents and support education, skills and wellbeing in our community.”
Adults of all ages and backgrounds are welcome. To find a local venue or enrol: Call 0300 3030 007 or email [email protected].
For more news and information from Coleg Cambria, visit cambria.ac.uk.
For The Parc Community Hub, email [email protected].s no incision, no stiches, no scar – patients return to normal activity faster, with fewer complications.”
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