With National Apprenticeship Week taking place this month, Carmarthenshire apprentice Daniel is building his future in IT.

Daniel’s story shows how personalised guidance, self‑belief and hands‑on experience can lead to the right opportunity.

When Daniel was in Year 9, he was weighing up his GCSE options and unsure about the direction he wanted to take. After a conversation with a careers adviser at a school event, he realised he had more potential pathways than he initially thought.

As Daniel progressed into his GCSE years, he began meeting regularly with Rhys Roberts, the careers adviser based at his school.

“It made my confidence a lot better because I knew there were different careers out there and different ways of going around things,” he explained.

With Rhys’s support, he explored the differences between university, apprenticeships and college routes. Though he originally imagined going to university, he soon recognised he thrived in practical environments.

“I prefer the more hands-on feel of work. I'd rather just get in there and do it,” he said.

To gain real insight into the world of work, Daniel arranged his own work experience within the local council’s IT department — a step that proved invaluable.

When an IT apprenticeship opportunity later became available at Carmarthenshire County Council, Rhys shared it with Daniel and supported him through the application process.

When Daniel was offered the apprenticeship, he described it as the moment everything fell into place.

“It felt amazing. It felt like the hard work had paid off,” he said.

Now thriving in his role, Daniel is earning while learning and gaining the experience he always hoped for. “I find it really good and it's a nice environment,” he continued.

Reflecting on his journey, Daniel says the guidance he received transformed his confidence and communication skills, encouraging him to keep going even when decisions felt uncertain. His advice to other young people is simple: “I’d tell them to have a go and to never give up.”

Rhys Roberts, Daniel’s careers adviser, said: “Daniel’s journey is a brilliant example of how apprenticeships can be the right option for young people who prefer to learn in a practical way.

“Apprenticeships offer fantastic opportunities to develop skills, earn a wage and take the first steps into a rewarding career — and Daniel has shown exactly what’s possible when young people are supported to find the route that fits them best.”

Sally Bennett, learning and development advisor at Carmarthenshire County Council, said: “Daniel has shown the importance of work experience and how much the opportunity gave him an insight into the world of work.

“Daniel has settled well to Carmarthenshire County Council, and we are delighted with his progress in the workplace and in college. Keep up the great work Daniel and enjoy learning and working within your team.”

For those interested in exploring apprenticeship opportunities in Wales, resources are available, including the apprenticeship finder on the Careers Wales website, to assist in finding and applying for positions. You can also get in touch with Careers Wales for support to explore your options.