Skills, Training & Qualifications
At Pathfinders Cymru, we believe every child and young person deserves the chance to build new skills, gain valuable qualifications, and take on exciting challenges, whatever their abilities or needs.
Below are some of the programmes and opportunities you can get involved with through Pathfinders Cymru:
Essential Skills Wales
From September 2026, Pathfinders Cymru will be offering Essential Skills Wales qualifications through Agored Cymru in:
Communication • Application of Number • Digital Literacy
These are nationally recognised qualifications focused on the practical English, maths and digital skills needed for everyday life, further learning and employment.
We will offer qualifications from Entry Level 1 to Level 2, so learners can begin at a level appropriate to their existing skills rather than their age. Level 2 Essential Skills are accepted by many colleges, training providers and employers as alternatives to GCSEs for some courses and opportunities, although individual entry requirements vary.
Learning differently
Our Essential Skills provision is designed particularly with neurodivergent young people and those who haven't thrived in conventional educational environments in mind.
Sessions will be small-group, supportive and practical. Rather than relying heavily on textbooks and worksheets, learners will develop their skills through projects, investigations, challenges and real-life situations.
Communication will develop reading, writing, speaking and listening through activities such as investigations, discussions, interviews and practical writing tasks.
Application of Number will develop practical maths skills including number, money, fractions, percentages, measurement and data through hands-on activities, problem solving and challenges.
Digital Literacy will develop safe, confident and creative use of technology through practical projects involving research, collaboration, digital creation and online responsibility.
Places will be limited to keep groups small and supportive. Please contact us if you'd like to find out more or register your interest for September 2026
AQA Unit Award Scheme (UAS)
The AQA Unit Award Scheme is a flexible, accessible way to gain recognition for your skills and achievements, no matter how big or small. It’s perfect for anyone of any age and ability.
Every time you complete a short unit, you’ll receive a certificate from AQA detailing exactly what you can do. It’s a brilliant way to boost confidence and create a clear, personal record of achievement.
We offer AQA Units to those attending our in-person sessions, but we also support distance learners, so it doesn't matter where you are, you can access the awards.
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Arts Award
Arts Award is a way for our young people to grow creatively and in confidence while gaining meaningful qualifications in a flexible and accessible way.
We offer Arts Award from Discovery (which is suitable from age 5 up) to Gold (which is equivalent to an A-level qualification). Arts Award can be undertaken by learners up to age 25.
Our Arts Award sessions are supported with funding from the Gwendoline and Margaret Davies Charity.
Our learners will not only learn new art skills and develop their own art projects, but will also acquire the skills to appreciate art around them and have opportunities to learn about art in the wider world.
We are open for sign ups now. Follow the link below or contact us on for more information on contact@pathfinderscymru.com
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE)
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is a fantastic way for young people to build confidence, independence, and teamwork skills.
Pathfinders Cymru offers inclusive, flexible DofE opportunities designed to support young people with learning disabilities and neurodivergent conditions to take part, overcome challenges, and celebrate their achievements.
By working closely with Neath Port Talbot’s Duke of Edinburgh Area Co-ordinator, we’re helping young people who might otherwise struggle to access and complete the programme, whether due to disability, anxiety, or other barriers. Together, we break down obstacles and open up opportunities.
We are currently open for new sign up's - email contact@pathfinderscymru.com for more info.
Young Enterprise
Enter the Dragon’s Den!
Okay, nothing quite as scary as that. Young Enterprise gives young people the chance to set up and run their own business, with guidance from experienced mentors.
We ensure our projects are accessible and inclusive, supporting children and young people with additional needs to develop teamwork, money management, and leadership skills in a positive, empowering environment. Amazing opportunity to add this wonderful qualification to your CV.
Neurodiversity Training
*COMING SOON*
At Pathfinders Cymru, we believe neurodivergent people don’t need fixing, society needs to adapt.
What do we want?
For neurodivergent people to be able to thrive as their true, authentic selves.
How can we achieve this?
Through understanding, acceptance and small changes that will lead to a more inclusive enviroment.
How is our training different?
Our trainers are:
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Teachers with many years of classroom experience.
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Parents to children with a variety of neurodiversities.
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Experienced in voluntary sector work with a long history of working with SEND children.
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Home Educating parents of many years with a unique perspective on educating SEND children.
More details coming soon.