Finalists announced for Careers Wales 2025 Valued Partner Awards

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Careers Wales have announced the employers shortlisted for their 2025 Valued Partner Awards. 

A total of 36 organisations have been recognised  for their exceptional support in helping learners make informed career choices and linking classroom learning to the world of work.

This year’s awards will take place on Wednesday, 15 January 2025, in The Neuadd at the Senedd, Cardiff Bay. The ceremony will be hosted by journalist Sian Lloyd.

The Valued Partner Awards are a chance for Careers Wales to recognise the vital role employers play in empowering young people with careers and work-related experiences.

Nikki Lawrence, chief executive at Careers Wales, said: “We’re delighted to announce the shortlisted organisations for the 2025 Valued Partner Awards. This event is a special opportunity to celebrate the incredible work employers do to support young people across Wales.

“The awards celebrate businesses that go above and beyond to provide pupils with authentic experiences and empower them with work-related knowledge, skills and encouragement that will help them shape their futures.

“We look forward to welcoming our finalists to the Senedd in January and celebrating their achievements. Congratulations to all those shortlisted!”

Jack Sargeant, Minister for Culture, Skills and Social Partnership, said: “By investing in Wales’ future workforce, these employers are not only shaping the career paths of young people but also strengthening the communities and industries across our nation.

“Their dedication is inspiring, and their impact will be felt for generations to come.”

The full list of categories and finalists are:

Outstanding Achievement 

  • BAE Systems and Babcock
  • Hafren Dyfrdwy
  • Hywel Dda University Health Board
  • Torfaen County Borough Council
  • Welcome Break

Best Newcomer 

  • British Transport Police
  • Morlais
  • Nidec Control Techniques Ltd
  • Safran Seats
  • Wall-Lag

Best Ongoing Relationship with a School 

  • BBC Studios and BBC Cymru Wales
  • CGI
  • O.S Tool & Engineering Services Ltd
  • Pembrokeshire County Council
  • Taylor Wimpey

Outstanding Personal Contribution  

  • Catrin Leader, Bute Energy
  • Gwenno Angharad Williams, Cyngor Gwynedd
  • Jessica Davies, DVLA
  • Kirsty Phillips, Wall-Lag
  • Seb York, Cardiff Community Housing Association

Most Supportive Work Experience Employer

  • Deutsch Autos Ltd
  • Fix Auto Group
  • Llwynypia Primary School
  • Viktor’s Autocare & MOT Centre
  • Westward Energy Services

Best Promoter of Welsh in the Workplace

  • Barclays
  • Canolfan S4C Yr Egin
  • Cyngor Gwynedd
  • Swansea Bay University Health Board
  • WeCare Wales

Best Supporter of the Net Zero Agenda 

  • Kier
  • Merthyr Valleys Homes
  • Morlais
  • RHA
  • Viridor

Read more about the Valued Partner Awards, including last year’s winners, on the Careers Wales website. For more information about Careers Wales’ work and achievements, read the latest Annual Report available at Our annual report | Careers Wales.