Cerys Hale

Overcoming health barriers with determination and resilience: Cerys’ story

Cerys first joined the JGW+ programme with Itec in July 2024 on the Engagement strand. She immediately stood out as someone motivated, mature and hard-working. She supported her peers, contributed positively to group activities, and naturally took on leadership roles, often helping others organise tasks and keeping the group focused. Her respectful attitude and enthusiastic approach to learning quickly made her a role model within the centre.

Despite facing both mental and physical health challenges before and during her time on programme, she has not allowed these barriers to limit her ambition. Instead, she has shown remarkable determination and resilience, pushing herself to achieve more than she ever thought possible.

Since joining JGW+, she has successfully completed a range of qualifications, including the 301, and is currently awaiting the results of her 311. Her progress, commitment, and consistent engagement with support from the Itec team led to her securing a placement at Penarth Library at the start of 2026. This has been an environment where she has truly thrived.

While gaining hands‑on experience in the library, she has continued to work towards additional City & Guilds awards with her Itec Essential Skills tutor, balancing her placement responsibilities with her academic progress. Due to her hard work, excellent feedback, and the success she has shown on placement, she has now progressed to the Advancement strand of the programme.

Reflecting on her journey so far, Cerys said, “The programme has given me opportunities I would never have had and has made me realise that I am capable of doing more than I ever thought. [Itec] has given me the opportunity to find my dream job and complete courses to help me set myself up for life.”

Itec JGW+ Centre Manager Hannah Kane-Roberts said, “It has been incredibly rewarding to witness her growth. She is dedicated, resilient, and consistently gives her best, and it has been a genuine joy to see her thrive at Penarth Library and carve a clear path toward her future career.”