Luke Paul has thrived in his educational journey since starting a Youth Access course at Coleg Sir Gâr.
Although always wanting to do well, Luke struggled at school competing against other students in large classes where he just needed that extra room to grow to reach his potential.
The Youth Access programme was able to provide a more bespoke learning environment where Luke’s needs could be a positive focus where a team of nurturing staff and mentors got to work in boosting his confidence and skills.
Bryony Evans-James, one of Luke’s tutors said: “Luke has so many strengths and he genuinely wanted to succeed, he just needed a boost of confidence and someone to help him reach his potential.
“He is a total success story; coming into college he struggled to write a line but now, he has the ability and confidence to write paragraph upon paragraph of quality material.”
So much did his abilities and confidence improve, that he won a gold medal in Skills Competitions Wales for his culinary talents in creating a meal and a desert.
In a recent awards event held at the college, Luke was also recognised for Most Improved Student of the Year as well as receiving an award for hospitality which he studies at Pibwrlwyd campus.
In the past, Luke would put off work for fear of failure but he now embraces every opportunity.
Luke Paul added: “Youth Access has entirely changed my life and it has helped me improve the skills I had and the skills that I didn’t.
“I’ve made good friends and I have really enjoyed the opportunity of having optional weekly sessions in the gym.”
Luke is looking forward to progressing to the college’s foundation course next year and he recently won an Achievement of Excellence Award at the college’s annual awards evening.
