More than ten employers from across west Wales came together recently to inspire young people with additional learning needs (ALN).

The “What Next? Choose Your Future” event, delivered by Careers Wales in collaboration with Queen Elizabeth High School in Carmarthen, gave pupils the chance to explore future career options in an engaging and supportive environment.

Held at the school on January 27, the event welcomed over 200 pupils from Years 10-14 in special schools and specialist units across Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion.

Learners took part in hands‑on activities and met employers to learn about jobs, apprenticeships, training routes and further‑education opportunities.

Alongside the main exhibition, pupils were also able to attend themed workshops taking place in classrooms across the school. These sessions offered fun, practical experiences led by employers.

Teachers and exhibitors reported that pupils really enjoyed themselves, especially the hands‑on activities.

A teacher from Ysgol Bro Teifi, said: “The practical sessions were great as were the stalls. Thank you for the experiences."

Pupils took part in a range of practical tasks, explored different job roles and received personalised advice from Careers Wales advisers.

One pupil from year 11 said: “I liked meeting the different employers today.”

A second pupil from year 10 added: “I’d like more events like this.”

Rebecca Thomas, a Careers Wales business engagement adviser, said: “Events like this play a vital role in helping young people with additional learning needs to build confidence, gain motivation and feel excited about their future. The chance to meet real employers and try hands‑on activities makes career opportunities feel more achievable and real.”

Elena Waters-Jenkins, future workforce operational manager at Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “Events like this are so important because they let us meet young people before they make decisions about their future. We want them to know the NHS isn’t just doctors and nurses - there are more than 350 different job roles available. Being able to speak with us in a relaxed setting helps break down barriers and shows them just how many opportunities are out there.”

Gareth Hicks, branch manager at Monmouthshire Building Society, said: “These events are really important because they give young people a real understanding of what’s out there and the chance to ask questions. Seeing how they interact face‑to‑face is brilliant. It’s nice to help them open up and get chatting.”

Schools in attendance:

The full list of employers in attendance at the event:

For more information about future career events and resources, please visit the Careers Wales website.