Grow Your Business with Jobs Growth Wales+: The Employer Advantage

In today’s fast-moving world of work, employers are constantly looking for new ways to bring fresh skills, enthusiasm, and innovation into their businesses. One opportunity that often goes under the radar is offering a placement to a Jobs Growth Wales+ learner.

Delivered by Itec Skills and Employment across more than a dozen centres in South Wales, Jobs Growth Wales+ is a programme designed to help young people gain the skills, experience, and confidence they need to step into employment. For employers, it’s not just about “giving back” – there are real, tangible benefits to opening your doors to a learner.

“We have always taken the approach of giving work opportunities to people who we feel will benefit from the experience, rather than taking on experienced staff. In practice, this means a greater level of support and mentoring is needed, which wouldn’t necessarily be possible without the support of Itec and JGW+.”

Mike Taylor, Faith Church Pastor

Click here to read the full case study: The Loading Bay X Itec

Welcoming a learner into your workplace gives you access to enthusiastic young talent who are eager to prove themselves. They bring new energy and perspectives that can spark creativity and help you adapt to emerging trends. At the same time, placements allow you to shape their training around your business needs, giving you the opportunity to develop skills directly relevant to your industry.

Crucially, many placements lead to longer-term opportunities such as apprenticeships or permanent roles. This helps you build a pipeline of skilled individuals who already understand your business. And because Itec delivers both Jobs Growth Wales+ and apprenticeships, the transition from placement to apprenticeship is smooth and seamless. The Itec teams communicate with each other to make the process easy, supportive, and exciting for both you and the learner.

“We are in full support of JGW+ programme, it’s a really great opportunity for young adults in the community and our business.”

Cadno Lounge

Click here to read the full case study: Tom Lewis X Cadno Lounge

There are also practical benefits. Employers receive support from the programme, which makes taking on a learner a cost-effective way to strengthen your team. On top of that, offering placements demonstrates your commitment to young people and your local community, boosting your reputation as a socially responsible employer and making your business more attractive to potential customers, clients, and future staff.

Importantly, you’re not left to figure things out alone. Itec provides guidance and support every step of the way, ensuring both you and the learner have a positive experience.

“Our relationship with Itec is brilliant. We’ve had many people come through in different roles and seen them go on to jobs. Volunteering is a good way of finding what you like—it gives that ‘in between’ step before employment.”

Michelle Giles, British Heart Foundation

Click here to read the full case study: Tristen X British Heart Foundation

Offering a placement to a Jobs Growth Wales+ learner is more than just an act of support for young people; it’s a smart business decision. From accessing fresh talent to building your future workforce and boosting your company’s reputation, the benefits are wide-ranging.

By opening your doors, you’re not only helping a young person take a vital step in their career, you’re also investing in the future strength of your business and the Welsh economy.

“JGW+ has provided a great opportunity to help and support a local lad with his development and integration into employment.”

Martyn, Afan Tyres

Click here to read the full case study: Patrick Beynon X Afan Tyres