Alice Vicary is making a difference every day as a Health Care Support Worker (HCSW) in the community. Her journey from the PRU to the frontline of healthcare shows how the right support, encouragement, and determination can shape a meaningful career.

After leaving the PRU, Alice continued her studies at Coleg Ceredigion. When the COVID-19 pandemic caused colleges to close, she responded to an NHS call for Health Care Support Workers to help during the crisis. What began as a way to support others quickly became a passion, and Alice has since chosen to stay in the profession, now working toward her goal of becoming a nurse.

Alice credits the PRU with helping her turn things around during a difficult time. With the pressures of mainstream education and personal challenges making it hard to engage, the PRU gave her a supportive environment where she could refocus. Smaller class sizes and patient, understanding staff meant Alice could receive the individual attention she needed to succeed. She describes the PRU as the reason she successfully completed her education and found a clear career path.

She fondly remembers the staff who supported her, including Julia Evans, Norma Jones, Sonia Ellis Jones, Alwen Roberts, Ruth Spencer, and Jan Pargeter — all of whom played an important role in her development and confidence.

Alice's advice to current students is heartfelt and encouraging: “Mainstream isn’t for everyone, but the PRU gives you the chance to succeed in different ways. Take part in everything they offer. Have a positive mindset and build strong relationships with the staff — they really do understand and help. If it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Believe in yourselves!”

Now, with a clear goal of becoming a nurse, Alice continues to build on her experiences, helping others and working toward a bright future in healthcare.

Tommy Kingham's journey since graduating from our PRU is a testament to resilience, hard work, and the power of positive support. Today, Tommy is a self-employed professional who has diversified his skills across multiple trades, including roofing, lorry mechanics, and tree surgery.

Tommy credits his success to the foundational achievements he secured while at our school, such as support with obtaining his driver's license, passing Level 2 Maths, and most importantly, gaining GCSEs and other qualifications. These accomplishments not only provided him with the confidence to build on his grades but also instilled a belief in his potential. He highlights the role of our encouraging staff, who helped him navigate challenges and celebrate his progress.

One of Tommy's proudest and most transformative experiences at our PRU involved public speaking at Canolfan Rheidol, an endeavor he undertook with support from staff members Vicky and Angharad. Additionally, his engagement in activities like fundraising for cancer through swimming, practicing yoga, and participating in cooking classes and gym sessions (jokingly alongside 'Irish John') contributed significantly to his personal development. His participation in surf school remains a positive memory.

Tommy's advice to current students is straightforward yet profound: "Actually turn up and listen! You will get out what you put in. Take the opportunities. Keep smiling. Starting is the hardest thing so just start." He encourages perseverance through tough times and stresses the importance of patience.

Looking to the future, Tommy is focused on further establishing his business, enhancing his physical fitness, particularly through boxing, and achieving personal goals such as buying a home. He is also expanding his professional skills with certifications like chainsaw operation.

Tommy's story is one of continuous improvement and taking every opportunity, serving as a powerful example of how dedication and support can transform potential into achievement.