Results Day: “I feel really comfortable and happy about the plans I’ve made” – Gwynedd learner takes first step towards mechanic career after securing apprenticeship
A learner from Gwynedd is preparing to start her apprenticeship as a mechanic after careers support helped her turn a work experience placement into a clear plan for her future.
After finishing her GCSEs, Zara Parker, 16, knew she wanted a career in mechanics. However, she wasn’t sure how to achieve her goal or what steps she needed to take.
“I felt unsure of what options I had. I knew what I wanted to do, just unsure of the process to be able to do it,” Zara said.
Wanting to explore her options, Zara met with Fiona Soar, a Careers Wales adviser based at her school, to discuss her interests and future plans.
Over the years, Zara had considered several different careers. However, after completing work experience at a local garage, she discovered a passion for mechanics.
During their discussions, Zara and Fiona also talked about the challenges of working in a traditionally male-dominated industry. They explored the importance of encouraging more women to consider careers in mechanics and engineering.
“Fiona helped me figure out what course I could do and how I could apply for it. We worked together on different options and places where I could do the course that I wanted to do,” Zara said.
Fiona encouraged Zara to start exploring apprenticeship opportunities early and suggested contacting local garages directly to ask about vacancies.
Following Fiona’s advice, Zara got back in touch with Morfa Garage, where she had completed her work experience placement. After enquiring about apprenticeship opportunities, she was delighted to be offered a position.
Alongside her apprenticeship, Zara plans to study at college in Llangefni, helping her build the skills and qualifications she needs for her future career.
“Fiona made me more confident and always reassured me when I was struggling with what I wanted to do,” Zara said.
Looking ahead, Zara is excited to take the next step in her career journey.
“I’m really looking forward to starting my apprenticeship after results day,” she said.
“I feel really comfortable and happy about the plans I have made and feel like I now know what I’m stepping into.”
Zara hopes her story will reassure other young people who may be worried about their results or uncertain about their future plans.
“It’s okay. You tried your best and that’s all that matters. If need be, you can always re-sit the ones that you want to,” Zara advised.
“Your GCSEs don’t define you as a person. It’s just a letter at the end of the day. As long as you’re happy and passionate about what you’re doing, it doesn’t matter,” she said.
If a young person is unsure about their next step, support is available. Whether they are considering university, an apprenticeship, training or employment, Working Wales can help them explore their options and understand what comes next.
Advice and guidance are available by phone, email and webchat. Young people can also access support 24 hours a day, seven days a week through Cari, the Careers Wales virtual assistant, who can help them find information, explore their options and navigate the Working Wales website.