Aaron Jones has become an inspirational role model for neurodiversity and the transformative power of lifelong learning.

He works as a part-time, senior waiter at Penycae Inn, near Swansea and, supported by his employers and Cambrian Training Company, has completed an Apprenticeship in Hospitality Supervision and Leadership, adding to a list of achievements.

His apprenticeship has not only given him workplace skills but also confidence to become a public speaker about his learning journey and neurodiversity.

An ambassador for work-based learning, he was recently named Cambrian Training Company’s Apprentice of the Year.

Aaron’s education began at Ysgol Penmaes, a special educational needs school in Brecon, where he studied from the age of three until 19. He achieved bronze, silver and gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards, volunteered to work with children with disabilities in Romania and was awarded a Powys Gold Kite Award and a High Sheriff’s Award for Excellence.

Aaron joined Penycae Inn as a kitchen worker when he was 19, but his employers recognised that his natural flair for customer service made him better suited to front-of-house duties.

Using the supervisory, leadership and IT skills developed during his apprenticeship, he now manages front-of-house, mentors new staff, looks after customers and does occasional shifts in the kitchen.

“I am very proud of my apprenticeship, especially as there were some that doubted my ability to succeed,” said Aaron.

“I am autistic which has, in the past, affected my confidence, communication and social interaction skills. However, rather than allowing this to limit me, I have embraced my neurodiversity and I have pushed myself to overcome these barriers.

“Anyone who is neurodivergent can achieve the same as me with the right support, hard work and determination.” Hoping to become a supervisor or bar manager in the future, he has more than 22,000 followers on his Aaron’s Ales TikTok channel, where he reviews beers.

Award nominator, Alison Collingridge from Cambrian Training Company, said: “Aaron is not just a success story, he is a shining example of how adult learning can change lives. “He’s a skilled hospitality professional, a respected leader within his workplace, and a role model for other young people with additional learning needs.”