Meet Our Freshers: New Beginnings and Big Ambitions

A new academic year is a time for fresh starts, new opportunities and exciting ambitions. Across Coleg Gwent, new and returning students are settling into college life, building confidence, making connections and taking important steps towards their futures. 

Every student has their own story. Some are starting college for the first time, while others are returning to education later in life to pursue a long-held ambition. Whatever their background or starting point, our students are showing that it’s never too late to learn, grow and follow your dreams. 

For Zara Ruiz, studying Hairdressing, Beauty and Complementary Therapies is a chance to turn a passion for makeup into a future career. Having returned to education as an older learner, Zara has found the experience much more welcoming than she initially expected. 

“I started buying my own makeup when I was 13 and practised on myself and my family. This course is giving me the opportunity to develop my skills and hopefully turn my passion into a career. Coming back to education can feel daunting, but I’ve actually felt really at ease and accepted, and I’d encourage other adults to give it a go.”

For Caydan Gore, studying Multi Skills is the first step towards becoming a plumber and eventually running his own plumbing company. Although he was nervous before starting college, Caydan quickly found himself feeling at home. 

“I was nervous because I didn’t know where to go or what to expect, but the tutors made everything simple and easy to understand. They’re really approachable, which makes you feel welcome.”

For Ashleigh Savill returning to education is about putting herself and her future first. She’s studying Access to Higher Education in Healthcare, with plans to progress to university to study Speech and Language Therapy,  

After having her child at 19, Ashleigh feels that now is the right time to pursue the career she has always wanted. 

“I didn’t get the opportunity to follow a career path when I was younger. Now my son is grown up, it feels like the right time to prioritise myself and reach my full potential. It’s never too late to get your degree and do what you want to do.”

CG Support is a dedicated service designed to ensure students have access to the right guidance and resources throughout their time at Coleg Gwent, helping them overcome challenges both in and outside the classroom. 

Meri Thomas, Support Manager said, “Starting college is an exciting time, but it’s completely normal to have questions or concerns along the way. Our CG Support Team is here to help new students settle in and feel supported, offering advice around wellbeing, finances, learning and any personal challenges they may face. We’re here to make sure every student knows they don’t have to navigate college life alone.”

We also have our CG Ambitions team who help students discover their potential, set meaningful goals and take the next steps towards a successful future.

Abigail Collins, Employer Engagement and Progression Manager said, “Whatever you’re planning after Coleg Gwent, CG Ambitions is here to help you explore your options and find the right path for you. Whether it’s university, an apprenticeship, work, starting a business or you’re unsure what comes next, we can help you make a plan, connect with employers, gain experience and build the skills and confidence for your future.”

Whether you’re a school leaver, returning to education, changing career or finally pursuing a passion, there’s no single route to success and no deadline for achieving your goals. 

And if you’re still thinking about studying this year, it’s not too late to apply. There are lots of courses still available at Coleg Gwent, so explore your options and take that next step towards your future. 

Whatever your starting point, your next chapter could start at Coleg Gwent. Find courses and apply here.