Pilot centre student

Student Name Nicky
Centre Coleg Meirion Dwyfor
Course Welsh Bac Advanced Diploma
Diploma Level Advanced
Options Taken


Nicky on her way to the European Parliament

Coleg Meirion-Dwyfor student Nicky will be on her way to Europe this weekend (October 17). For ten days Nicky will have a unique opportunity to lead a day-to-day life at the European Parliament in Brussels, in the company of Jill Evans MEP for Plaid Cymru.

As a Welsh Baccalaureate student at the Pwllheli campus, Nicky, 17, has to undertake a period of work experience as part of her studies. Wanting to make the most of the opportunity, Nicky decided she would aim high, and ensure herself a once in a life-time work experience.

Nicky explains,

"As part of my Bac course I have to undertake a period of work experience. I felt it was a good opportunity for me to try something a bit different, and something that I would find interesting. I'm interested in politics and languages, and I thought that spending time with a Member of the European Parliament would be a great experience.

"If I hadn't been on the Bac course I don't think it would have been possible for me to gain such an experience. I'm also studying A level French and history, so my visit to Brussels will tie in well with those subjects too. It will definitely help me improve my French."

The Welsh Bac, a new route of study now in its second year, lets students develop and progress their skills in line with their own abilities and interests. It provides students with opportunities to learn by gaining practical experiences, with emphasis on learning by doing.

Course tutor, Gerallt Huws, sees Nicky's trip as a valuable experience.

"Nicky has been very fortunate to be able to go to the European Parliament, and to spend time with an MEP, as normally only university students are able to do this. We think that Nicky may be the first 17 year old in Wales to gain work experience there. While she's in the Parliament, Nicky will be gaining a first hand experience, and understanding of how Wales fits into the European agenda. She will also learn about life in Brussels itself, and develop her own personal experiences as she goes about her daily life. "

To speak to Nicky on her return please call PR Officer Nia Wyn 07736 106 921