Owyn joined our Jobs Growth Wales+ programme, delivered in Merthyr Tydfil in partnership with ITEC Skills and Employment, during one of the most challenging periods of his life.
At just 16 years old, Owyn had been removed from the family home and placed into independent living while simultaneously preparing to sit his GCSE examinations. The instability and trauma he experienced during this time had a profound impact on both his emotional wellbeing and academic performance. Despite previously showing strong academic potential, the circumstances surrounding him made it extremely difficult to focus, revise, or fully engage with his studies, resulting in grades that did not reflect his true ability.
When Owyn first joined the programme, his confidence was exceptionally low. He rarely spoke, struggled to engage with both staff and peers, and found even simple social interactions overwhelming. He kept very much to himself and lacked belief in both his abilities and future opportunities.
Reflecting on this time, Owyn said:
“Before coming to the centre, I didn’t think university was something someone like me could do.”
Over the past three months, however, Owyn’s transformation has been remarkable. Through tailored support, mentoring, encouragement, and access to a safe and nurturing learning environment, he has gradually rebuilt his confidence and sense of self-worth.
He began actively participating in wellbeing activities including mountain walking and bowling and became increasingly comfortable engaging in classroom discussions and social conversations. While these may appear to be small steps, they represented major personal milestones for Owyn and highlighted just how far he had progressed in a short period of time.
“The support I received helped me believe in myself again,” Owyn shared.
At the start of his journey, university felt completely out of reach. Through the support of the Jobs Growth Wales+ programme team, we worked closely with Owyn to challenge those doubts, explore new possibilities, and help him set ambitious but achievable goals for the future.
Owyn was supported throughout the application process for a foundation degree at the University of Bristol. This included planning and writing a 1,500-word personal essay, where he was encouraged to express his experiences, ambitions, and ideas with confidence and authenticity.
In addition, Owyn received intensive interview preparation support — a particularly significant achievement considering that, when he first joined the programme, he struggled to speak on the phone. Through practice, encouragement, and perseverance, he successfully completed a 60-minute interview with a university lecturer.
“A few months ago, I struggled to speak to people. Now I’m preparing to go to university.”
The feedback from the university was exceptional. Owyn’s essay was described as one of the most unique and impressive submissions they had received, and staff were particularly struck by the quality and authenticity of his writing. Despite not holding an English GCSE qualification, the university recognised his potential and confidently offered him a place on the foundation degree programme.
Last week, Owyn received confirmation that he had secured his place at the University of Bristol, alongside an offer of his first-choice student accommodation — marking the beginning of an exciting and life-changing new chapter.
For Owyn, this opportunity means far more than simply progressing into higher education. He had expressed concerns about remaining in his current accommodation in Merthyr Tydfil, where he felt the environment and prevalence of drug use were negatively affecting his wellbeing and future aspirations.
“Moving to Bristol feels like a fresh start and a chance to become the person I want to be.”
Owyn’s journey is a powerful example of resilience, determination, and the life-changing impact that the right support, guidance, and opportunities can have on a young person’s future.
“This programme changed the direction of my life.”