ColegauCymru is today pleased to welcome Welsh Government’s announcement to allow the return of “licence to practice” vocational learners and apprentices to college from 22 February 2021.
The move comes as a result of a new working group between ColegauCymru, the joint trade unions (JTUs) and government colleagues. This social partnership has and continues to work quickly and efficiently to address ongoing issues which have presented themselves as a direct result of the pandemic, in order to ensure the safe return of learners to Welsh colleges.
ColegauCymru Chair Guy Lacey said,
“We are encouraged by today’s recognition of the importance of enabling vocational learners and apprentices to return to college. These learners are unable to complete their programmes of study online in the same way that their academic peers can. Without face-to-face assessment they will be unable to continue to the next phase of their study or to move on to the world of work. Our priority, as always, is to ensure the safety of our learners and staff at all times.”
Operational guidance is currently being reviewed with a final draft expected to be published by Welsh Government on Tuesday 9 February. It is also expected that details on additional funding for the further education sector to help support the safe return of learners to college will be published at the same time.
ColegauCymru Chief Executive Iestyn Davies added,
“The newly formed working group has come together to act swiftly and efficiently to ensure the safest and earliest possible return to college for our learners, particularly those who are vulnerable or are unable to complete their studies remotely. We are grateful to our JTU and government colleagues for their continued support and collaborative attitude in reaching our collective goals.”
Further Information
Welsh Government Live Press Conference
5 February 2021
