'Gower College Swansea helped me turn my passion into a business'

Starting a business at any age is no small feat, but doing so at just 13 years old takes a rare kind of determination.

For Will Evans, a former full-time Gower College Swansea student, that determination has grown into a thriving local attraction.

Now aged 19, he is the founder of Will’s Farm, a beloved petting farm and tourist destination in the heart of the Gower.

We caught up with Will to find out how his studies at Gower College Swansea helped him turn a childhood passion into a real business, and what advice he has for ambitious students looking to carve their own path...

Tell us about Will’s Farm

I started what was originally called Wil’s Petting Farm when I was 13 years old - it’s now known as Will’s Farm.

I’ve been open to the public for six years this coming May, which is something I’m really proud of.

I’ve grown up with chickens, ducks, rabbits and guinea pigs my whole life, so animals have always been at the heart of everything I do.

The farm has become a real local tourist attraction here in the Gower and Swansea, and over the next few years, I’d love to see it grow bigger and better, going from strength to strength.

What does running the farm involve?

Running a business is definitely not easy, but I wouldn’t change it for the world.

It involves so much more than just caring for the animals; there are the day-to-day operations, welcoming visitors, managing staff, handling finances and making sure guests have a great experience.

I’ve learnt a lot along the way, developing my skills and knowledge on both the animal and business sides.

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance has been really important to me, especially while studying.

How did Gower College Swansea influence your journey?

Studying at Gower College Swansea has helped me develop a huge range of skills for my business.

I chose to study a Level 3 Business course because it covered so many things I needed - basic accountancy, customer service, human resources and customer satisfaction.

Everything I learnt, I was able to apply directly to what I was already doing with the farm.

I then went on to study an HND in Business Studies at Gower College Swansea, which took my knowledge even further, and I’m now coming back to study the BA (Hons) in Business Management.

The lecturers and tutors were incredibly supportive throughout, understanding that I was running a business alongside my studies. That support made it all possible.

What’s your advice to anyone thinking of joining Gower College Swansea?

If you were to decide to study at Gower College Swansea, I would recommend it.

Your lecturers are supportive, the classes are flexible, and the overall atmosphere is lovely.

It’s a brilliant place to study, and I’d recommend it to anyone.

Did you study at Gower College Swansea?

Wherever life has taken you since college, you remain an important part of the Gower College Swansea community.

The college would love to hear from you and encourages former students to join the Gower College Swansea Alumni to stay connected.

Click here for further information and to sign up.