Careers support helped Zara secure a mechanics apprenticeship.
Zara is from Gwynedd and knew she wanted a career in mechanics after finishing her GCSEs. However, she wasn't sure how to make it happen.
She said: “I felt unsure of what options I had. I knew what I wanted to do, just unsure of the process to be able to do it.”
Exploring her options
Zara met with Fiona, a Careers Wales adviser based at her school, to discuss her interests and future plans.
She had considered several different careers over the years. However, after completing work experience at a local garage, she became interested in a career as a mechanic.
Zara and Fiona discussed the challenges of working in a male-dominated industry. They also talked about the value of having more women in mechanics and engineering.
Zara said: “Fiona helped me figure out what course I could do and how I could apply for it. We worked together on different options and places where I could do the course that I wanted to do.”
From work experience to apprenticeship
Fiona encouraged Zara to start looking at apprenticeship opportunities early. She advised her to contact local garages directly.
Zara got back in touch with Morfa Garage, who she’d had work experience with. She asked them about apprenticeship opportunities. She was delighted to then be offered a placement there.
Alongside her apprenticeship, Zara plans to study at college in Llangefni.
Zara said: “Fiona made me more confident and always reassured me when I was struggling with what I wanted to do.”
Feeling ready for what’s next
Zara said: “I’m really looking forward to starting my apprenticeship after results day.
“I feel really comfortable and happy about the plans I have made and feel like I now know what I’m stepping into.”
She encourages other young people not to worry if they are unsure about their results or future plans.
Zara said: “It’s okay. You tried your best and that’s all that matters. If need be, you can always re-sit the ones that you want to.”
“Your GCSEs don’t define you as a person. It’s just a letter at the end of the day. As long as you're happy and passionate about what you're doing, it doesn't matter.”
If you would like to explore your interests and opportunities with a careers adviser, please contact us today.
Explore
An apprenticeship is a job where you gain recognised qualifications while you work. Find out about eligibility, wage, training information and the range of apprenticeships on offer.
Find out where to look for apprenticeship vacancies, and how to make your application the best it can be.
Explore our list of larger companies who offer apprenticeships in Wales. A wide range of apprenticeship vacancies are advertised at different times of the year.