The Paul Sartori shop and café in the heart of Haverfordwest celebrated the achievements of its learners by hosting an afternoon of high-tea treats.

Closely linked to Pembrokeshire College, the ‘skills shop’ is a central hub for people to re-train and develop their skills in a supportive environment.

The current group to graduate from the programme include: Jess Boyd, Josh Davies, Linda Greenwood, Amy Harlow, Jane Roberts, Jenna Thomas and Richards Yates.

A celebratory presentation was held in the café where learners were presented with a certificate of achievement and special recognition for their unique talents. The group went on to present Ceri Price, office administrator for the Paul Sartori Foundation, with a cheque for £2,000, which will go towards running the hospice at home service for people living with a life-limiting illness.

Skills Shop facilitator, Fran Richards, said how proud she was of the group’s achievements and is so happy to see them progress: “I have loved seeing everyone develop and complete the programme of learning.”

The course at Paul Sartori café provides staple qualifications for people looking for work who are inexperienced or lacking in confidence and ability. The group will leave the programme with certificates in Food Hygiene, Basic First Aid, Manual Handling, COSHH, Literacy, Numeracy and Welsh, as well as growing their personal development and work experience.

Fran said: “A few members of the group couldn’t attend the celebration as they had found employment, which is what the Skills Shop is all about.”

If you know of anyone who would benefit from being part of the skills shop family please contact your local Careers Wales office or get in touch with Job Centre Plus.