As part of Apprenticeship Week Wales 2025, ColegauCymru, in partnership with the National Training Federation for Wales (NTFW), was delighted to host an Apprenticeships Fayre at the Senedd.
The event took place on Wednesday, 12 February 2025, at the Senedd’s impressive Neuadd in Cardiff Bay, hosted by the Cross-Party Group on Apprenticeships, and co-chaired by Luke Fletcher MS and Joyce Watson MS.
Bringing together exhibitors from our member colleges and training providers across various sectors, the event offered attendees a closer look at apprenticeship programmes and associated success stories.
The exhibition stands provided a hands-on experience, featuring activities such as virtual welding, model aeroplane demonstrations, and vehicle body repairs and refinishing. Visitors also explored a number of other interactive displays showcasing apprenticeship programmes from across Wales. These exhibits provided a unique opportunity to engage with innovative technologies and gain insight into the practical skills apprentices develop throughout their training.
The event also showcased the diverse range of apprenticeship opportunities available in Wales and emphasised to Members of the Senedd the vital need for continued investment in apprenticeships as a pathway to economic growth and community resilience.
We were also pleased to welcome Welsh Government Minister for Further and Higher Education, Vikki Howells MS, who said that apprenticeships are so much more than a pathway to employment - they are the cornerstone of a strong and successful economy.
The Welsh Government's policy statement on apprenticeships positions them as a cornerstone of its skills strategy, providing individuals with the chance to "earn and learn" whilst equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and behaviours essential for success in the workplace.
ColegauCymru Chief Executive, David Hagendyk, said,
"Apprenticeships are vital to building a skilled workforce and supporting the Welsh economy. They provide life-changing opportunities for individuals to earn, learn, and thrive, while helping businesses grow and succeed.
The Apprenticeship Fayre at the Senedd was a fantastic platform to showcase the breadth of talent and innovation that apprenticeships bring to Wales. We are proud to celebrate the achievements of apprentices during Apprenticeship Week Wales and reaffirm our commitment to championing this essential pathway for learners and employers alike."
Together with NTFW, ColegauCymru is proud to champion initiatives like this Apprenticeship Fayre, which celebrate the achievements of apprentices and showcase the vital role they play in creating a stronger, fairer, and more prosperous Wales.
Further Information
Jeff Protheroe, Strategic Advisor – Work-Based Learning and Employability
Jeff.Protheroe@ColegauCymru.ac.uk
