Gemma Williams comes from Ferndale and works as a teaching assistant at Ysgol Gynradd Gymraeg Llyn y Forwyn, specifically with children with special needs. Gemma is doing a sports apprenticeship with the Urdd whilst continuing with her usual responsibilities at school.

Why did you decide to take up a Sports apprenticeship with the Urdd?

I really like rugby and I helped with the girl’s team for the Urdd Aberystwyth tournament a couple of years ago. The apprenticeship has given me the opportunity to learn more and improve my skills.

What do you enjoy most about your job and how has the apprenticeship affected your job?

I enjoy learning something new every day as well as being there to help and support the child I work with. The apprenticeship has given me the opportunity to learn new skills and has given me the confidence to help run an after-school rugby club. Also, I use new activities that I've learned from the apprenticeship with the children during play time.

What do you think about undertaking an apprenticeship through the medium of Welsh?

There are loads of opportunities to learn whatever you want through English. So, I'm grateful to have the opportunity to learn and do the apprenticeship through the medium of Welsh.

What are your interests outside of work?

I really like rugby and watching the games. I also like hiking the local mountains or going out on the bike.

How has doing the apprenticeship affected your personal development?

The apprenticeship has helped to build my confidence and given me the opportunity to improve myself. It has given me the confidence to look more deeply into things that interest me and learn more about them, such as a special learning needs course.

What are you hoping to do after completing the apprenticeship?

Currently, I work as a special needs’ teaching assistant with children with autism. In addition to this apprenticeship, I am also doing a 'Special Learning Needs' course to improve my knowledge and understanding of the other types of learning difficulties. It will be lovely one day, to be able to work on the new skills I am learning on both courses and combine my knowledge of sport and lead sports activities with working with children with special learning needs.

Describe your experience of doing an apprenticeship with the Urdd in 3 words!

Interesting, educational, challenging.