A chat with James Fishlock

Apprentice of the Month, December 2021

James Fishlock is from Briton Ferry in Neath Port Talbot. He received his education at Ysgol Gyfun Ystalyfera and he is now completing an apprenticeship in Activity Leadership with the Urdd.

Why did you decide to take on an apprenticeship with the Urdd?

I chose this apprenticeship because I’ve been interested in sport since I was young. I’ve been interested in sport all my life and when I saw this apprenticeship, I thought it was a perfect opportunity for me.

What do you enjoy most about your apprenticeship?

I like to coach the children and watch their skills develop and improve as they do the sessions. It makes me happy when I see the children’s confidence improving through different skills.

How important is it to do your apprenticeship through the medium of Welsh?

I like doing the apprenticeship through the medium of Welsh because I can use the language more often, and the apprenticeship helps me develop my Welsh language skills. 

What are your interests outside of work? 

I run for Neath Harriers – I do cross country and I also do long distance. I recently ran my first marathon in Newport in 2:59:09. I also support Swansea; I have a season ticket for Swansea and also, I try to follow them away as much as possible! 

How has doing the apprenticeship affected your personal development?

My confidence has improved whilst doing the apprenticeship. I have enjoyed meeting new people and I’m also now confident in phoning different schools.

What are you hoping to do after completing the apprenticeship?

I would like to go on to get a coaching or another job with the Urdd, and I hope to develop more skills after the apprenticeship. 

Briefly describe your duties.

I need to plan and deliver different sport sessions in Neath Port Talbot. I coach children and help them improve their skills and techniques in different sports.

Describe your experience of doing an apprenticeship with the Urdd in 3 words!

Fun! Great! An experience!