3 minute read
Staff in the spotlight
by ACT
At our Aberdare Centre, JGW+ Delivery Manager Ian Rowburrey enjoys helping learners succeed. He tells us that that the job allows him to help young people break down barriers and flourish.
Tell us a little bit about your role, and what the average day looks like… I am the JGW+ Delivery Manager for Aberdare. Summing up the job role is very difficult as no two days are the same. However, the one key feature of every day is that everything I do revolves around making this a great place for the learners and staff to be. In addition to this, I am also supporting to develop a new suite of Health and Wellbeing qualifications.
What is the most rewarding part of your job? For me, a key part of what we do is breaking down barriers with learners, to help them to succeed. The young people we work with have various support needs and when these needs are met, they flourish, there is no greater reward than to be part of that.
Tell us an interesting fact about yourself… About 15 years ago I took up climbing and I have been hooked ever since. I climb both indoors and outdoors and since having children I have also got them into the sport from the age of six. It is a fantastic way to stay fit and build confidence.
Where is the best place you have travelled to? It is not exotic, but I’ve always had a passion for France. I have travelled to many locations in France, from the north of Normandy to the French Alps. It’s a fantastic country to drive across, with beautiful landscapes and small villages. It has the most relaxed culture I have ever experienced and I’ve always found the people very friendly. Of course, you cannot visit France without a stop at Disneyland Paris!
What is the last album you listened to? Broken Machine by Nothing But Thieves. They are a fantastic band to watch live!
What’s the worst job you’ve ever had? When I first left school, I struggled to find work and the only options available to me were factory work or shop work. I decided on shop work and ended up working in a frozen-food cold store. It was back-breaking, uncomfortable work in minus 25 degrees. I would regularly have ice forming on my eye lashes and my hands and toes would get painfully cold. That was probably the lowest point of my working career.
How do you like to spend your time when you’re not working? I love the outdoors, so if I’m not in work and if the weather permits, I love to get out walking anywhere I can. I have a habit of wandering off the beaten path as I love to explore new places and I prefer peace and quiet, away from crowds. It does sometimes get me a little lost and often up to my ankles in mud, but I always find my way home!
What would be your top tip for colleagues? If there was one thing I have learned from 20 years in this industry, it’s to never take negative things to heart. Young people will often say and do things that they don’t really mean, people will at times let you down, but it’s important not to take any of the negatives home with you and remember that tomorrow is a new day.
