Investing in Future Talent: New ‘Academi’ Opens Pathways into Care, Therapy and Social Work

Academi Gofal Gwynedd is enabling Cyngor Gwynedd to grow and develop future talent within the social care profession by giving individuals a three-year contract, during which they spend time working in frontline care settings alongside work-based learning core qualifications. On completion trainees go on to complete further training allowing them to develop a career in Care management, Occupational therapy or social work.

Academi Gofal Gwynedd is currently working with the first cohort of learners - six in total, and recruitment for the second cohort set to open in December 2025.

Menna Trenholme - Cabinet Member for Children and Supporting Families commented:

“Cyngor Gwynedd is one of the largest providers of care services in the region, offering support across children’s services, adults with learning disabilities, and both residential and home-based care. This breadth of provision means we can offer meaningful career opportunities for those who are passionate about caring to join us on an initial three-year contract, gain recognised qualifications while earning, and progress toward specialist roles within the Care sector.

“It is well established that providing care in a person’s first language leads to better outcomes. We are therefore proud to offer training opportunities for local people, enabling us to continue to deliver high-quality services to the most vulnerable members of our communities through the medium of Welsh."

The trainees are currently working at a range of establishments including Glynllifon and Canolfan y Gwystl, Cynllun Cymunedol Caernarfon, Plas Hedd, Hafan y Sêr and Tan y Marian

Academi Gofal Gwynedd trainee Zara Jones says:

“I’m on placement with Cynllun Cymunedol Caernarfon, the AGG has given me the opportunity to work with the Learning Disability Team in a care setting that suits me and allows me to do the type of work that I really enjoy.”

While Sion Adams adds:

“I’m enjoying the work at Glynllifon and Canolfan y Gwystl, my job is enjoyable and the support with the training is helping to build a strong foundation to build a career”

Busnes@LlandrilloMenai works with health and social care employers across North Wales to develop skilled, confident professionals who can meet the growing demands of the sector. By delivering accredited, work-based qualifications and tailored training, Busnes@LlandrilloMenai helps organisations strengthen their workforce and supports individuals to build rewarding careers in care, health, and wellbeing.

Gwenllian Roberts,Executive Director - Commercial Development:

“Our Work-based Learning team is one of our greatest assets. All of our trainers and assessors are experienced care professionals who now teach in the workplace, using their sector knowledge and passion for care to support learners every step of the way. They understand the realities of frontline care and are committed to helping individuals develop the skills and confidence they need to progress in the industry.

“Busnes@LlandrilloMenai and Cyngor Gwynedd have a strong history of working together to provide high-quality, practical training that supports the needs of our communities. Academi Gofal Gwynedd builds on that partnership, creating clear pathways into meaningful careers and helping learners take their first steps into a rewarding future in health and social care.”

Expressions of interest for Academi Gofal Gwynedd opportunities are always welcomed. Applications for the next co-hort will open in December. If you are considering a career in care, more information can be found online: www.gwynedd.llyw.cymru/AcademiGofalGwynedd

No previous experience is required to make an application; applicants must be passionate about helping others and making a difference to people’s lives. They should also be 17+, have a grade C or above in Welsh or English and pass a DBS check.