A NEWPORT apprentice has gone back to school to share his experiences and inspire current pupils to take up vocational courses as a way into a career.

Lewis Lloyd, 19, from Alway, returned to his old school, Llanwern High (formerly Hartridge High) last month for a careers afternoon with pupils, along with a campus director from Coleg Gwent and staff from a Newport car repair shop.

In an attempt to kick-start a career in vehicle body repair Mr Lloyd applied for an apprenticeship at Schaeffler UK LTD, and told the Llanwern students that following a vocational route helped him on his way to a successful career.

“I think it’s really important that young people understand all the different career paths available to them when they leave school,” said Mr Lloyd, who is working towards his Vocational Competence qualification Level 2 with plans to proceed with Level 3 in vehicle body repair. “I was always interested in engineering and decided the best way for me to start my career was with a worldwide leader in the industry.”

Mr Lloyd is now part of the Welsh Government’s apprenticeship campaign, promoting industry experience.

“I really enjoy the hands-on practical experience of my apprenticeship and I also have money in my pocket,” he said.

Mr Lloyd reached the final of the 2013 Skills Show, a competition for young people and adults across the UK to show off their skills at the highest level.

Visit www.careerswales.com or call 0800 100 900.