Apprentice of the Month, February 2022

Ifan Davies comes from Cardiff, and he received his education at Ysgol Gymraeg Treganna, and then on to Ysgol Uwchradd Plasmawr. Ifan has already completed a Level 2 Activity Leadership with the Urdd and is now completing a Level 3 Sports Development apprenticeship. Here’s a little about him!

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

I like sports and enjoy taking part in various sports. After leaving school, I wanted to do something in sport, so when I found out that the Urdd was doing an apprenticeship, I went for it! I was also a member of the Urdd when I was in primary school and competed in Urdd tournaments, like rugby. I also enjoyed going to the Eisteddfod. 

What do you enjoy most about your apprenticeship? 

Working with children and seeing their skills and confidence rise. I like the fact that I can improve the skills and techniques of the children I coach and see their development. I also enjoy doing sport through the medium of Welsh. 

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

I’ve been a Welsh speaker all my life and my family all speak Welsh. By doing the apprenticeship, I can speak Welsh and do something I like. I’m also very proud of my contribution to keeping the language going in the world of sport.  

What are your interests outside of work? 

I love rugby and play for my local Llandaff club. I also support the Cardiff rugby team. 

How has doing the apprenticeship affected your personal development? 

Doing an apprenticeship has helped me develop my confidence and also my communication skills by talking to parents and schools. It has also improved my coaching and leadership skills. 

What are you hoping to do after completing the apprenticeship? 

After completing my apprenticeship, I hope to continue with the Urdd to develop my coaching skills. 

Briefly describe your duties. 

My duties are to provide children’s sports through the medium of Welsh and to develop children’s sports skills. I also have a responsibility to complete my coursework, attend workshops and help other staff from the Sports department. 

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

Fun, Development, Enjoyment!