A chat with Sion Laugharne

Apprentice of the month, April 2023

Sion comes from Cardiff and went to Bro Edern Secondary School,  he is working towards his Level 3 qualification in Sports Development and is also working with the HWB to improve his communication and numeracy skills. Sion is going to Kenya soon and we are looking forward to hearing about his experiences!

Why did you decide to do an apprenticeship with the Urdd?

I decided to do this apprenticeship because I was sure I didn’t want to go to university. I am really interested in sports and could see that the Urdd offered a Sports Apprenticeship, and that there was the chance to succeed with many different qualifications so this was an excellent opportunity. The chance to earn my own money was also great.

What do you enjoy most about your Apprenticeship?

The best thing about the apprenticeship is the different opportunities that are available to me.  Through the different courses available I have developed many skills over the last two years. I also really enjoy working with children, it’s great to see their improvement and development over the weeks. I’m also a person that likes to work within a successful team.

What does completing your apprenticeship through the medium of Welsh mean to you?

Completing my apprenticeship through the medium of Welsh is important to me because I have grown up in Welsh and all my education was in Welsh.

What are your interests outside work?

-        Walking Ned, the dog!

-        Listening to music

-        Playing football

-        Watching rugby and football

-        Socialising and going out with friends

In what way has your apprenticeship effected your personal development?

I am a lot more confident, I speak to parents and schools often, both on the phone and face to face.  I am also a lot more organised with my time and have got much better at managing it.

In what ways has developing your (Numeracy, Communication and Digital Literacy) skills added to your apprenticeship?

Through doing my communication qualification with the Essential Skills HWB, I am now a lot more confident speaking to parents or with schools over the phone or in person. The work I have done working towards my numeracy qualification, has helped me deal with money more confidently.

What do you hope to do when you complete your apprenticeship?

I would like to work for the Urdd as a Sports Co-ordinator.

Broadly describe your duties:-

-        Leading activities for children and young people through the medium of Welsh

-        Planning sports sessions

-        Communicating with schools

-        Leading school holiday activities

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

Fun, Interesting, Welsh!