Llanelli teenager wins Next Steps 2013

A SIXTEEN-year-old from Llanelli has made an unusual start to his career, by winning a unique construction apprenticeship.

Former St John Lloyd pupil Keelan McNicholl-Edwards, of Clifton Terrace, has won the Next Steps 2013 competition, in which four teenagers have battled it out through the summer in a bid to win an apprenticeship with Llanelli and Gwendraeth-based construction firm Lloyd & Gravell Ltd.

Keelan will start with the firm as a carpentry apprentice next week (Tuesday, September 3), picking up skills on site and studying for a qualification at Coleg Sir Gâr’s Ammanford campus.

Keelan said: “I am really chuffed, and didn’t think I’d win it because all the boys worked hard and deserved it. It’s been a fantastic experience, and I can’t wait to start.”

Kevin Gravell, Director of Lloyd & Gravell Ltd, said: “Yet again, this year’s competition has been a huge success. All four boys have done themselves proud, and it has been harder than ever to pick one from the others.

“Keelan has shown great enthusiasm and commitment, has always got stuck in and has shown great skills. We’re delighted to have him on board.”

Three others narrowly missed out on the prize – Osian Williams, from Tumble; Jack Tucker from Carmarthen; and Edward Warden from Ammanford.

Each have been offered places on a Pathways to Apprenticeship course at Coleg Sir Gâr.

Next Steps is run annually by Constructing Carmarthenshire Together – a partnership of Carmarthenshire County Council, Coleg Sir Gâr and Carmarthenshire Construction Training Association Ltd – in association with Lloyd & Gravell.

Whilst giving someone a unique opportunity to fast-track their career, it also involves a community benefit scheme.

This year, the boys have built a sensory garden for the council’s Tir Einon Respite Centre, for adults with severe disabilities.

Whilst picking up skills from Lloyd & Gravell mentors, including carpentry, bricklaying and plastering, they have taken part in challenges as part of reward and forfeit experiences supported by the Scarlets and Pembrey Riding Centre.

Gareth John, Head of Mental Health and Learning Disabilities for Carmarthenshire County Council, said: “This project has proven what can be achieved when everyone works together. These boys have helped to achieve something that we thought was impossible, and in my eyes they are all winners. Seeing the smiles on people’s faces when we reveal the garden in a few weeks time will be priceless, and I can’t wait.”

For further information visit www.nextstepscarmarthenshire.co.uk or to find out more about apprenticeship and training opportunities locally visit www.constructingcarmarthenshiretogether.co.uk

Pic: Next Steps 2013 winner Keelan McNicholl-Edwards, of Llanelli. Pic, Lloyd & Gravell