The Welsh Government has announced a range of financial cuts to the education sector, including apprenticeships following unprecedented pressures facing public services. A combination of factors, including record and persistent inflation and more than a decade of austerity, will see further education bearing a considerable £8.5m cut, and demand led apprenticeship funding bearing cuts of £17.5m.
ColegauCymru Chief Executive, David Hagendyk, said,
"Whilst we recognise that the Welsh Government is in a challenging position financially, support for post-16 education and apprenticeships has never been more important.
"Apprenticeships are vital to Wales’ economic recovery, and with strong links to industry, these pathways will help to deliver the skills necessary for learners to embark on successful careers. Investing in apprenticeships help businesses to grow, fill skills gaps, and create a pool of talent for today and for future generations.
"We know there are likely to be even more difficult decisions to come and it is vital that Welsh Government recognises the importance of apprenticeships and of further education colleges to our economic future and to the recovery from the pandemic."
Further Information
Welsh Government
Update on 2023-24 Financial Position
Lucy Hopkins, Communications Manager
Lucy.Hopkins@ColegauCymru.ac.uk
