Emily, a Denbighshire resident, who’s dream role was to work in education, has battled to overcome personal and professional barriers and secure a Teaching Assistant Work Start placement at Ysgol Fron Goch, despite facing medical challenges.
Emily’s journey to employment was always going to be shaped around her Epilepsy, a medical condition that has significantly impacted her confidence and life experiences. Since being diagnosed, Emily has faced various challenges, from navigating school life to overcoming societal perceptions.
Emily views her Epilepsy as a medical condition, though she acknowledges that others with epilepsy may consider it differently. This had a big impact on her life, especially during high school, where she needed the aid of specialised chairs and one-to-one support, leaving her feeling self-conscious in front of her peers. She expressed missing out on experiencing key teenage milestones, such as going out with friends, learning to drive, and finding a safe and secure job.
Determined to make a positive change and help other young people, Emily reached out to Working Denbighshire after learning about the service through her social worker. Emily expressed her desire to work with children and wanted to build her experience working in a School.
Emily was then paired with a mentor, Byron, who identified relevant placements and approached Ysgol Fron Goch, to discuss the possibility of organising an unpaid placement, through Working Denbighshire’s Work Start scheme. Recognising Emily’s potential, Headteacher, Dylan Thomas, supported the initiative and ensured a position was available for her to apply.
With support from her mentor, Emily engaged in specialised training through the Wales Union Learning Fund, including courses in Lesson Planning for Teaching Assistants, Classroom Behaviour Management, a Level 2 Teaching Assistant Certificate, and Safeguarding Students to boost her confidence, and improve on other skills needed for this placement.
After completing necessary courses, Byron set up a pre-screening interview at the school for Emily. Her dedication during her first placement had left a lasting impression, and Emily was offered a Teacher’s Assistant placement which will provide her with relevant experience and the opportunity to acquire a paid position.
Councillor Jason McLellan, Leader of the Council and Lead Member for Economic Growth & Tackling Deprivation, said:
“Emily’s story is an inspiring example of how determination, tailored support, and inclusive opportunities can transform lives. Working Denbighshire are committed to empowering individuals to overcome barriers and achieve their aspirations. This success highlights the importance of creating workplaces that welcome and support talented individuals with medical conditions, ensuring everyone has the chance to thrive.”
Throughout the process, Working Denbighshire worked closely with Ysgol Fron Goch to ensure Emily’s medical needs were fully supported. This partnership drives the importance of recruiting talented individuals with medical conditions and highlights, when supported effectively, the value potential candidates can bring to the workplace.
Dylan Thomas, Headteacher at Ysgol Fron Goch, added:
“Emily has been given the opportunity to work at Frongoch and has overcome several barriers to ensure she is able to begin her journey into the workplace. It is hoped that this is the first of many opportunities for Emily in the workplace.”
Reflecting on her experience, Emily said:
“Being given the opportunity to work at Ysgol Fron Goch after finishing my A levels in high school has been life-changing for me. Working Denbighshire have helped me to improve my interview skills, build my confidence and widen my area of job searches, all of which I am extremely grateful for. This opportunity has shown me that with the right support, anything is possible.“
Working Denbighshire is dedicated to promoting equal opportunities and showing how inclusive practices can benefit both employers and employees.
Working Denbighshire is part funded through the Welsh Government Communities for Work Plus Programme which supports those most disadvantaged in the labour market to overcome the barriers preventing them from gaining employment.
Working Denbighshire is part funded by UK Government.
