Staff in the Spotlight

Darren Gould, JGW+ Delivery Manager at our Ebbw Vale centre, shares what makes his job so worthwhile and how he’s kept busy day to day with our learners.

Tell us a little bit about your role, and what the average day looks like… In my role no two days are the same! I spend large parts of the day supporting my team in dealing with various issues that our young people present us with. I ensure the centre runs smoothly and that all my team and learners have everything they need. In the afternoons, I’m either meeting new young people, to bring them onto our programme, or I’m out visiting other youth support services to see if we can provide help.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? This is an easy one. The most rewarding part of my job is being able to positively influence the young people of my area and help them make something of themselves. We all know how tough it is at the moment and with us just coming through a pandemic the need for support amongst our young people has never been greater, I am fortunate that my role allows me to make a difference to these young people.

Tell us an interesting fact about yourself… I am a coin collector, I have a collection of over 300 coins - some dating back to the 1800s and some more modern ones. It’s what I like to call my anorak hobby.

Where is the best place you have travelled to? I have travelled around a fair bit but my favourite place is Tenby in West Wales. I just love the calmness of the place and would retire there tomorrow if I could.

What is the last album you listened to? Green Day - American Idiot

"The most rewarding part of my job is being able to positively influence the young people of my area and help them make something of themselves."

What’s the worst job you’ve ever had? I once worked as a mechanic in a used car garage and it was the most awful experience dealing with screaming people and a less than trustworthy garage owner. I lasted 3 weeks.

How do you like to spend your time when you’re not working? I love spending time with my family. I have 3 fantastic kids and treasure every moment with them. I also coach rugby at my local rugby club and enjoy mountain walks, although I don't get out as often as I would like.

What would be your top tip for colleagues? Don't take things too personally and always remember to leave some time for you.

A big thank you to Darren for taking the time to answer our questions this month. If you would like to feature in our Staff in the Spotlight section, or have a colleague you’d like to put forward, please e-mail communications@acttraining.org.uk.