Johnson @ Barry Centre

Turning Determination into Direction

When Johnson joined the Engagement strand of the Jobs Growth Wales+ programme, he arrived with a clear ambition and a quiet determination. He wanted to build confidence, develop new skills, and work towards his long‑term goal of becoming a Roads Policing Officer. A role he hoped would allow him to “help make the world a better place and show that anyone can do anything all you have to do is put your mind to it.”

But alongside these ambitions, Johnson carried understandable worries. With ASD and ADHD, he had previously struggled to receive the support he needed in school, making the idea of returning to an educational environment feel daunting. He described adjusting back into learning as “difficult and nerve wracking” unsure whether he would feel comfortable or capable in a new setting.

Joining Itec Barry changed that.

Settling In and Moving Forward

From his first day, Johnson found something he hadn’t expected: a place where he felt at home.

“Being neurodiverse sometimes I can struggle… but when I stepped into that room I felt like I was at home. Everyone had a smile on their faces.”

Starting on a gentle timetable of 9 to 12 allowed him to settle at his own pace. As his confidence grew, so did his hours, progressing to a full placement schedule of 9 to 3. This steady, supported transition helped him rebuild trust in himself and in learning.

Over the course of six months, Johnson achieved four qualifications: 301, 311, Communications, and Level 1 Application of Number. His tutor highlighted just how significant this progress was, noting that he “worked considerably hard” and consistently showed commitment to his development.

His achievements led him to a placement with the Vale of Glamorgan Council in the HR department, where he took on the role of Lifecycle Administrator. This was a milestone that reflected both his capability and his growing confidence.

A Positive Impact

Reflecting on his experience, Johnson is clear about how transformative the programme has been:

“The JGW+ Programme has helped me learn new skills and feel more confident… it’s made me feel like there are people out there that can help.”

He describes feeling happier, more settled, and more capable  a shift that has shaped both his wellbeing and his future ambitions.

His advice to anyone considering JGW+ is simple:

“Go for it… the programme offers valuable support, helps you develop new skills, and gives you opportunities to grow in confidence.”

Looking Ahead

With new qualifications, workplace experience, and a renewed sense of self‑belief, Johnson is now exploring his next steps. This includes the possibility of experiencing a new sector as he continues working towards his long‑term career goals.

His journey is a powerful example of what can happen when determination meets the right support. Johnson has not only progressed academically and professionally, but has grown into a more confident, capable version of himself proving, just as he hoped, that with the right mindset, anything is possible.