Nearly 100 apprentices from across Wales have graduated at a ceremony in Mid Wales.
The Cambrian Training Company, along with its sub-contractors, hosted the bi-annual event at the Royal Welsh Showground in Llanelwedd.
The ceremony celebrated the achievements of apprentices from various industries.
The event followed a positive Estyn inspection of the Cambrian Training Company, which highlighted its contribution to the hospitality sector in Wales as an example of best practice.
The company delivers apprenticeships for the Welsh Government.
Its sub-contractors include Apprenticeship Group Wales (AGW), Clybiau Plant Cymru Kids Clubs, Call of the Wild, Inspiro Learning, Portal, Progression Training, Sirius Skills, and The Work Based Training Agency (WBTA).
Faith O'Brien, managing director of the Cambrian Training Company, congratulated all the graduates, including six of the company's staff.
She said: "Apprenticeships have a long and rich history, dating back to 1563.
"While the conditions have evolved, the core idea remains the same: offering people the chance to learn and grow through hands-on experience.
"Apprenticeships open doors for everyone, allowing individuals to enter their desired careers.
"They also help businesses build the skilled workforce they need, proving that learning isn’t just confined to classrooms – it’s about gaining real-world experience.
"Every single apprentice has proved that with dedication, resilience and the right guidance, anyone can create their own path to success."
- One person dies and two drivers arrested after fatal crash near Welshpool
- Lib Dem leader hints that Jane Dodds should resign over handling of abuse case
- Popular illuminated tractor run route set to return
Ms O'Brien also thanked the training officers and mentors, saying: "Your support and expertise have been the cornerstone of these apprentices’ success.
"You’ve not only shared your knowledge but also instilled confidence and belief in each apprentice, even during times when apprentices might have doubted themselves."
She acknowledged the support of sub-contractors, saying their collaboration ensures that the skills gained by apprentices are relevant and exactly what evolving industries need.
She also praised 'supportive employers' for recognising the value of apprenticeships and what they can add to their organisations.
Addressing the graduates, she said: "Remember this day as a milestone, but not the destination.
"The skills you’ve gained through your apprenticeship are the tools.
"How you utilise them, shape them and innovate with them is up to you.
"As you move forward, keep the spirit of learning alive, embrace challenges and remember that every experience, good or bad, is a step closer to the professional you aspire to be.
"I have no doubt that you will take these skills and continue to build not only your future but also the future of your industries and communities here in Wales."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here