Blue Skies graduation 2017

Our North Wales Blue Skies students celebrated their achievements on Wednesday 15th February at the Blue Skies Graduation held at the Ucheldre Centre in Holyhead. Of the 35 students from Ysgol Uwchradd Caergybi, 10 were graduating from Level 3 Employability Skills, having already completed Levels 1 and 2 over the previous two years. This year’s Level 1 and 2 students each delivered a speech about their experiences on the programme so far and how it has developed their skills.

Following the ceremony, two proud mothers of some of our Blue Skies students said “My son was lucky to be offered a place on the Blue Skies programme.  He has really enjoyed it and is now far more confident. He could not have spoken in public to so many people. I was so proud of what he achieved today” and “Blue Skies is absolutely fantastic. It has built my son’s confidence and changed him for the better.”

As well as parents in the audience, it was wonderful to see so many people from the local community supporting the students’ graduation, including the Leader of Anglesey County Council, Councillor Ieuan Williams, Head of Education, Delyth Molyneux, the Station Commander of RAF Valley, Group Captain Nick Tucker-Lowe and governors from Ysgol Uwchradd Caergybi.

Mr Adam Williams, Headteacher of Ysgol Uwchradd Caergybi said “This event provided impressive evidence of the impact of Blue Skies. These students have been on a phenomenal journey. The programme really has made a difference; it has been a catalyst for change.  The students have grown in confidence, they can now communicate more effectively and cope better with any challenges they face. The programme took them out of their comfort zone and gave them the chance to experience success.”

Our Blue Skies programme is run in conjunction with RAF Valley, Ascent, BAE Systems, Horizon Nuclear, Eagle House, ISS and Serco. Their personnel inspire the students by delivering sessions on problem-solving, communication, teamwork, leadership and employability skills. The sessions include climbing, flying a hawk simulator and being winched into a helicopter simulator; they are not only fun, but they also increase the students’ confidence, self-esteem and trust.

Personnel from RAF Valley were equally enthusiastic about their involvement. Group Captain Nick Tucker-Lowe, Station Commander said “RAF Valley are proud to work with JET by providing the resources to support young people within the community. Today each and every one of the students has become a role model for others.” And Rob Worsnop, ISS RAF Valley Catering Manager said “It has been a pleasure to work with the Jon Egging Trust and be able to contribute to the programme. We would be happy to support the programme again because it clearly delivers a worthwhile programme.”

Finally, Cerys Gage, Armed Forces Community Officer for Wales said “The Blue Skies programme must be spread through Wales so more students can have the same experiences and opportunities.”